The Hillcrest 2023-2024 | Volume 50, Issue 1

Aliah Mission

School researchers bag P340K DOST Grant

Grade 9 researchers from Jacinto P. Elpa National High School has clinched a prestigious spot in the 2023 Young Innovators Award, sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology (DOST-PCIEERD), securing a substantial grant of P340,000.

Researchers Aldridge Aguhob, Kimberly Alonzo, and Marchzery Maquiling joined other researchers from 7 schools all over the country. The team is coached by Mr. Marvin Sumastre.

Their research titled “Synthesis and Characterization of Lignocellulosic Biobased Aerogel derived from Cardava banana (Musa Alcuminata x Balbisiana) earned them a nod from DOST after their successful online defense.

The research aims to produce an Aerogel absorbent that could detect heavy metal contents in waters.

community news

Nicole Auza

Solving classroom shortage

JPENHS breaks ground on new building

Jacinto P. Elpa National High School has started its operations on a proposed four -storey building to address Elpa High’s classroom shortage.

Engr. Angel M. Novo, DPWH Project Engineer, together with school personnel and stakeholders witnessed the demolition of the 42-year-old Grade 7 building at BAEx.

In an interview with Mr. Ronello Tajonera, school physical facilities in-charge, he said that the building, implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways, has an expected floor plan of four storeys with 12 classrooms but it was later increased to 20 classrooms.

“Ang pondo ini is Php 30, 262, 500.00 for the construction of 4 storey, 12 classroom building,” Tajonera said.

(“The fund for this building is PhP 30,262,500 for the construction of a 4-storey, 12 classroom building,”)

The project is funded through The School Building Program of Basic Educational Facilities Fund (BEFF) of the Department Education.

“The construction started on August 4 and is expected to be finished by August 2024,” Tajonera added.

Tajonera also bared plans that with the additional classrooms, Elpa high plans to open STEM strand in Senior High School to add to the HUMMS strand the school is currently offering. He said that the construction of the new building is estimated to be finished in a year.

Meanwhile, the demolition of the dilapidated grade 7 building created another problem on classroom shortage.

Dr. Evelyn Bandoy, school principal, approved the shifting of classes as a temporary solution to lack of classrooms.

The first shift starts class at 6:00 in the morning and ends at 12:00 while the afternoon shift reports to school at 12:40 to 6:40 PM.

Although the schedule was not well-received by the students and parents who has not adjusted to the double `session, the school finds the system as the only way to cater to the classroom shortage.

Previous school year also saw Grade 10 students experiencing the same situation when the 50-yearold prefab building in Grade 10 campus was condemned for demolition.

LGU, DOLE hires 167 students for summer jobs

The Local Government of Tandag with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) hired 167 students as beneficiaries of Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) for Fiscal Year 2023. Lamberto M. Plarisan, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) manager said that the beneficiaries who temporarily joined the workforce of LGU came from Elpa High and other secondary and college schools in the city.

Plarisan said that the beneficiaries received P443 per day for 20 days excluding weekends and holidays.

PESO Tandag received an award from DOLE last January 24, in Butuan City for its remarkable implementation of SPES. A joint program between Tandag City government and DOLE,

Elpa High turned to blended learning as Tandag City experienced heavy rains and strong winds due to Low Pressure Area trough, northeast monsoon, and shearline.

SPES aims to provide employment opportunity to poor but deserving students to help them earn extra income during the summer break.

“The Special Program for the Employment of Students is an annual program of the DOLE in partnership with the local government of Tandag,” Plarisan said in an interview.

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (Pagasa) raised Red and several Orange Rainfall Warnings in Surigao del Sur last January.

Additionally, it also warned of flooding in low-lying community and landslides in mountainous areas prompting local government officials to suspend in-person classes in all elementary and secondary public and private schools.

Dr. Evelyn C. Bandoy,

PESO Tandag City recently received a special citation award from the Department of Labor and Employment for its implementation of Special Program for Employment of Students during the PESO Yearend Performance Assessment, Federation Meeting, and Core Planning last January 24, 2024 in Butuan City.

school principal, directed the teachers to switch to blended learning to ensure that the competencies and objectives will be met.

“Since the local government has issued an Executive Order for the cancellation of inperson classes, teachers are urged to switch to blended learning,” Bandoy said.

DepEd Order No. 37 s. 2022 provides for the implementation of modular distance learning to ensure learning continuity.

NEW BEGINNING. The last remnant of the old and dilapidated Grade 7 building goes down to make way for a new one. Students have to endure the shifting of classes temporarily while the new building is constructed.

Photo by Ronelo Tajonera

Santino Yu

Janesa Sitoy School implements blended learning amid weather disturbance

The Diocese of Tandag commemorated the quadricentennial milestone of the arrival of Christian faith in Surigao del Sur with a Holy Mass to honor San Nicolas de Tolentino, the patron saint brought by the Augustinian Recollects missionaries.

His Excellency Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines led the Mass at the old San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral in Tandag, September 9.

In his homily, the Papal Nuncio recounted the history of the Catholic faith in Tandag, then the center of Christian faith being the capital of the old Provencia de Caraga which comprised the provinces of Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Dinagat, and Davao Oriental.

“400 years ago this year, the Augustinian Bishop of Cebu, Bishop

Pedro de Arce, in accordance with the wishes of the Governor, entrusted the spiritual conquest of the huge island of Mindanao to the Augustinian Recollects in March 1621,” Brown said.

Quoting the historian Emmanuel Luis A. Romanillos, Brown recalled the beginnings of Christianity in

Fulgencio in Caraga in 1622. The two priests worked in the extensive area near Butuan river. In 1623, six Augustinian Recollects followed suit.

“We only know the names of two other missionaries: Miguel de Santa Maria and

Juan de la These, two religious and four others reached Mindanao in the latter part of 1623. A Recollect Missionary was put in charge of the fort of Tandag, which was constructed to put a stop to the raids by the Moros in this part of Mindanao.

He emphasized the martyrdom of the priests who came all the way to the Philippines from Spain and gave up their lives just to bring the gift of faith to the people of Mindanao.

“The blood of the martyrs is the seed of Christians. Where the blood of the martyrs poured

bishops of Butuan and Malaybalay, concelebrated the mass at the new Cathedral to celebrate the feast day of Tandag’s patron saint. Other highlights of the culmination of the 400th celebration included a fluvial parade along the riverbanks of barangays Telaje and Bongtud reenacting the arrival of the Augustinian Recollects.

From page 1:

Unitas radio, an FM radio station of Tandag Diocesan Social Communication Ministry, owned by the Diocese of Tandag was blessed by the Papal Nuncio before he flew back to Manila.

400 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY

Tandag’s history: A quick glance

Gen. Juan de la Vega erected the Royal Fort of Tandag in 1609, a stone fort, to protect the town from hostile natives. Tandag earned the distinction as the first center of Christian faith in Mindanao in 1622. The Diocese of Tandag was established on June 19, 1978 with less than 10 parishes. Sangkaan Festival depicts the conversion of the natives to Catholicsm.

Papal Nuncio leads jubilee celebration

Past and present bishops of the Diocese of Tandag:

Ireneo A. Amantillo (1978-2001)

Nereo A. Odchimar (2001-2018)

Raul B. Dael (2018Present)

The most important thing for us to do is

1911 view of the historic Cathedral in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

Photo from Maryknoll Mission Archives

Tandag City parishioners got a rare oppurtunity to meet and greet Most Rev. Charles

Photo by Diocese of Tandag

- Most Rev. Charles John Brown

Data lifted from Tandag Capital of Old Caraga (Lucilo P. Trinidad)

campus news

Aliah Mission

School scraps ancillary, admin tasks for mentors

As a response to

DepEd Order 2 series of 2024, Jacinto P. Elpa National High School implemented the memorandum order relieving teachers of ancillary and administrative tasks.

Dr. Evelyn C. Bandoy, school principal, welcomed this move from DepEd allowing teachers to focus solely in classroom activities, unhampered with nonteaching related works.

Although DepEd Order No. 002 was released in January this year, prior to that, that was August during the Division MANCOM, there was already a draft so right away we implemented that so teachers could focus in their classroom duties,” Bandoy explained.

According to Dr. Bandoy, the teachercoordinator of 4Ps was already relieved of her duties. The head teacher of each grade level now handles the job. School Based Management coordinatorship likewise changed hands following the directive.

heroes shed blood for our country. Let us remain united and undivided

Mindanao initiative

Students thumb down call for Mindanao independence

Arecent survey conducted among 250 students from Grade 7 to Senior High School revealed various opinions on the possible separation of Mindanao from Luzon and Visayas. The question posed was, “Will you agree if Mindanao will separate from Luzon and Visayas?” The results varied significantly across different grade levels.

In Grade 7, the majority of students agreed with the separation, with 40 students voting ‘No,’ 10 voting ‘Yes.’

In Grade 8, none of the students agreed with the separation. 45 students voted against while 5 students were undecided. This stark contrast to the Grade 7 results indicates a shift in perspective as students progress in their education.

Grade 9 saw a slight

The 3-day school science camp ended prematurely when a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Tandag City, Saturday night of December 2.

350 Science campers were immediately evacuated to the open grounds of the school for safety.

The campers were watching a contest for Best in Recycled Materials at the School Covered Court when a strong shaking of the ground was felt at

around 10:35 PM.

“It was crazy. I thought it was my end when the ground violently shook for a long time,” Ana Geran Millan, camp manager said.

With a tsunami warning immediately issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and

Seismology (Phivolcs), school gates were temporarily closed, to account and ensure the safety of the campers while waiting for their parents to fetch them.

No injuries among the campers were reported.

increase in the number of students agreeing with the separation, with 12 voting ‘Yes.’ Although, the majority still disagreed, with 35 students voting ‘No’ and 3 students undecided.

In Grade 10, the number of students agreeing with the separation dropped again, with only 7 voting ‘Yes,’ 42 voting ‘No,’ and 1 student undecided.

The trend of disagreement

continued into Senior High, with only 4 students agreeing with the separation, 43 disagreeing, and 2 students undecided.

The survey results reveal a complex tapestry of opinions among students on the potential separation of Mindanao from Luzon and Visayas.

While younger students in Grade 7 showed a preference for separation, this sentiment did not

carry through to the higher grades. The majority of older students disagreed with the separation, indicating a potential shift in understanding as students advance in their education.

The survey stemmed from the call of Duterte amid his misgivings with President Ferdinad Marcos Jr., who as Duterte said, was attempting to amend the constitution.

community news

Elpa High urges mentors to ‘follow up’ students as enrollment dips by 6%

Administrators of Jacinto P. Elpa National High School call upon the teachers to encourage and follow up last year’s students to enroll as enrollment rate decreased by 6 percent based on the latest data from the School Planning Office.

6 percent of the enrollees or 269 students were still unaccounted according to Ruth J. Matugas, School Planning in-charge said.

The total number

of enrollees for the school year 20232024 to date was 4,496, which is lower compared to the previous school year’s total of 4,765 enrollees. This includes all enrollees from JHS and SHS, Open High School and Alternative Learning System.

The enrollment period for the school year 2023-2024 began on August 14 until August 25, 2023.

ONE NATION. Special Program for Journalism students express their opposition on former President Duterte’s call to secede Mindanao from the rest of the country

Photo by Jacob Tolero

Princess Orzales, Camille Vyne Robles, Julie Anne Abejay, Jacob Tolero, Alan Arienza, & Jasmin Juban

Data from SPJ students

Elpanian students agreed with the separation of Mindanao from Luzon and Visayas.

Elpanian students disagreed with the separation of Mindanao from Luzon and Visayas.

Elpanian students are undecided regarding the possible separation of Mindanao from Luzon and Visayas.

elpametrics

CALM BEFORE THE STORM. Sci campers engaging with their peers moments before the 7.4 earthquake.

Photo by SYSTEC

Samantha Cañasa School halts SciCamp as 7.4 quake rocks Tandag

Aliah Mission

SHORTENED HAPPINESS. Sci-campers having fun and watching the performance by their guildmaster prior to the earthquake that struck Tandag. Photo by SYSTEC

- Floyd Morse STE Student

Aliah Mission

Geli: number of malnourished children drops

The City Health Nutrition Office announced significant improvement in children’s health as the number of malnutrition cases in the city of Tandag decreased from 583 in 2017 to 461 in 2023. According to data from the City Health Office (CHO), the number of malnourished children in the city has decreased annually.

With the help of programs implemented by DepEd and the City Health Office, children have been provided with guidance to combat malnutrition.

“We have a Dietary Supplementation Program (DSP) wherein our beneficiaries are those wasted children,” said Reyveen Geli, Nutrition Officer IV of LGU-Tandag.

Geli also emphasized the significant role of school nurses as they monitor students identified as malnourished.

Moreover, the CHO encourages parents to pay attention to their children because despite the positive results, malnutrition remains a problem in the community.

Additionally, Geli said that the CHO aims to have more programs to address the issue of malnutrition and continue the decline in cases in the city.

In Jacinto P. Elpa High School, Feeding Program is given due focus every year to address the nutritional needs of wasted and underweight students.

TLE teachers together with the school nurse are the implementing authorities in the feeding program with funds coming from the school canteens as well as the school cooperative.

Grade 10, 12 students performed poorly in 2023 Achievement Test

10th and 12th grade students of Jacinto P. Elpa High School scored low in problem solving, information literacy, and critical thinking across all subjects with the overall assessment outcome ranging from Not proficient to Nearly proficient in the National Achievement Test (NAT) for school year 2022-2023.

Per data released by the school, Grade 10 students had an Over-all MPS across all subjects of 42.35 in Problem Solving, 39.85 in Information Literacy, and 39.83 in Critical Thinking, all classified as Low Proficient.

Chaile M. Salinas, school Academic Head said that there are a lot of factors that contributed to the dismal result of 2023 NAT, noting that this was the first NAT after the pandemic.

“The NAT in 2023 was the first achievement test conducted after the

COVID-19 pandemic. Students were clearly having problems in distance learning as shown in the result. Another obstacle is the presence of a number of struggling readers and non-readers in our school,” Salinas said.

Salinas pointed out the important role of the teachers in engaging the students during class discussion to address learning gaps.

“I considered the use of HOTS or Higher Order Thinking Skills questions in all forms of assessment in the classroom as a good

intervention that will improve NAT results. Intensive use of HOTS questions during classroom interactions and exams expose students to standardized tests,” Salinas added. Salinas highlighted that prioritizing students’ mental, physiological, emotional, and academic well-being could help halt the current stall in educational growth.

“These students should have mastered the competencies and should have been trained to answer

HOTS questions. Then, Intensive review of the lessons would ensure confidence, mastery of academics, basic study skills and technical content and skills,” Salinas said.

In a comparison among Tandag division schools, Elpa High ranked 3rd out of six secondary schools in the division.

NAT exams aim to assess students to determine if students are meeting the “learning standards”. The results will also guide the school leaders as to what course of action to take.

Amid Tandag City’s rising HIV cases, health professionals emphasize the need for youth awareness and educational spaces to battle the epidemic. Tandag accounts for 56 out of 197 HIV cases across 17 municipalities in Surigao del Sur as of October 2023, according to the Provincial Health Office (PHO) health.

“Pero ang contributing factors gayud kay number one is lack of awareness, then multiple sex partners, and also substance abuse and drug use among young na mo indulge dayun sa sexual activities na very risky,” Emerica Lopez-Perez, a public

health specialist with PHO said.

Perez also added that the virus can also be transmitted through blood transfusions and breastfeeding and one way to avoid contracting it is through protection. She added that no less than 90% affected

with HIV are those who engaged in maleto-male sexual contact.

“Ang pinaka taas gayud na apektado na mga tao, base sa data, in terms of age kay ang age grouping na 25-34, then followed by 1524, 35-41, then 15 and below,” she said.

People who are

at risk of getting HIV should consult health professionals. Those who opt out on prophylaxis and pre-exposure prophylaxis, especially sexually active people, are prone to HIV diagnosis.

Every person who may be at risk of HIV should access testing.

-

Students from Elpa High interviewing sir Reyveen Geli to address questions regarding the health of every child in Tandaqg.

Photo by Brent Plaza

Photo by Edna H. La Torre

Nicole Auza

Nicole Auza Tandag’s HIV surge linked to education gap

FACE THE TEST. The outcome of this examination will serve as a crucial indicator of whether the educational gaps have been effectively addressed.

Photo by Edna H. La Torre

Kryst Mercado STE Student

Photo courtesy of Emerica Lopez Perez

editorial

Breaking Down Unity

In the risk of separating our nation, it will seldom cross the minds of Filipinos to instantly agree to such division of territory. Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte plans to separate Mindanao from the rest of the Philippines, the cause of this is not pinpointed to only one but

rooted from the many recent controversies on Charter Change, International Criminal Court (ICC) Investigation, and disagreement between both Marcos and Duterte dynasties.

The most influential organization, the Government, adamantly shows their opposition to this idea of secession. The further implementation of this will grow assumptions of war inside the country because it breaks down the authority depending on who will take over. Furthermore, This is where the “power

alliance” between both Marcos and Duterte families is threatened which will pose a huge constraint to the order of the nation. Proceeding with this proposition involves a lot of trouble to initiate, as Jacinto P. Elpa National High School institution was built under the laws of the country, this conflict will only lower the spirit of Elpanians in times of desperate need for it. Changes to amend the Constitution of the Philippines is also stated as one of the reasons why Duterte formulated such a conclusion. In this Charter Change,

Current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., suggested to terminate president term limits, however the starting point of this condition was brought by his father, Late Former President Ferdinand Marcos who was removed from power in a people-power revolt in 1986. Thus, Duterte made a harsh remark and used this as a cover-up to not let Marcos rule over his hometown, Mindanao, for possibly a long time.

It is disturbing to see that the focus is rerouting towards the wrong direction when what every Filipino needs right now are leaders who will take charge of their well-being as one, not those that side with power. In recent circumstances, no one seems to be in the right. At the same time, the arising investigation on Duterte by the ICC involves his past on killings attributed to his war on drugs. Taking into consideration the worst case of being arrested, this idea of separation could be to divert attention. Hence, it remains skeptical

to all eyes observing given that the real reason behind is yet to be determined. Duterte denies accusations of it being a personal matter yet with that portrayed, feelings of betrayal overwhelm the youth including Elpanians from the behavior Duterte showed after his presidential term ended.

As a matter of fact, there were attempts to separate Mindanao from the rest of the country in the past but never made it past many ears of those from the upper levels, still that was a call for reasonable advocacy to support a neglected group in a specific area, the only problem was that it was not given the right attention it needed. Even Bangsamoro, the group that initiated this, refuses to side with Duterte on this matter, despite it being beneficial to them. If even they couldn’t do it, what reason can be plausible enough for Duterte to convince the whole country’s population?

Duterte does not seem to be fazed from the counterclaims of his idea and even starts this operation through a process based on gathering signatures. Be that as it may, planning to separate the home country from each other will entirely ruin the protected harmony created from decades of years.

For an Elpanian as a Filipino citizen, one does not want to live in a country that is divided, in such a way it’ll be like breaking down unity, knowing with this secession, directly bringing it to life is possible, however there is no guarantee of it being valuable.

Cartoon • Santino Yu

The Department of Education should uphold ideas in a way they can provide support so that, the ones involved will follow and adhere.

- Claire Nigparanon

Claire Nigparanon

Fifty-Fifty

Unsupported Implementation

Can the implementation of this program salvage the situation, or bring only additional burden? The course of action the Department of Education (DepEd) chose to take after receiving the 2022 results of Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) gained several deliberations on both students and teachers. From the circumstances of the Philippines ranking sixth from the bottom in reading, this was truly alarming and disappointing for the country that states to “value” education very much.

As part of the DepEd National Learning Recovery Program, outlined in DepEd order No. 13, s. 2023, which emphasizes the need to address the learning losses due to COVID-19 pandemic, all schools are advised to implement Catch-Up Friday. Every Friday the school week will be dedicated to enhancing reading skills. The concept is a great idea in improving the country’s overall education. However such advantages only come from the

side of the organization and not considering the perspective of the people that will bring it to life.

For the teachers, this program is both a positive and negative implementation. They are motivated to find ways to help students, but they cannot deny it is considered as another heavy task for them. From

thinking of activities to do, and making lesson plans, teachers are the ones to bear this responsibility for DepEd doesn’t provide them so. Based on Mrs. Fe E. Lagumbay, a teacher from Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS), “Although I welcome this move from DepEd especially with the results of PISA and the

Division of Tandag City low performance on the National Achievement Test (NAT), we can’t deny that it is an additional burden for the teachers without ready-made materials to give to the students.”

As much as Catch-Up Fridays has a positive impact, for the teachers’ opinion, it is fifty-fifty.

Furthermore, the same goes to learners. They can benefit from this by gaining the ability to read well and improve their

Campus

Circumstances mismatched

Jcomprehension. However, from the recent behavior and uptake of the students, they only see this program as a distraction in their classes, for even with the official adaptation every Friday, the teachers are not motivated to apply the idea in the time schedule. Many opinions have been raised regarding this program of DepEd.

A chance to relax while still learning is a good combination. Catch-Up Fridays offers such an opportunity, but it does not help much seeing as school days are numbered and always disrupted by many factors. With many oppositions in the present-day, this program needs to be studied further and revised to suit the conditions of everyone involved. But at this timing, Catch-Up Friday is deemed to be an unsupported implementation.

acinto P. Elpa National High School offers various curriculums for students to choose from so that they can have the freedom to match their academics with the skills that best suit them. At this point of time where journalism is prominent, what use will the Special Program in Journalism (SPJ) Curriculum serve when students from the Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Department are instead the ones handling the school paper?

However, it is acknowledged that said students are mostly not participating in the Division School Press Conference (DSPC), which is an event to showcase talents in pieces.

From an interview recently held, an SPJ student and an STE student spoke up about their thoughts on their curriculum’s stand on the school. SPJ experiencing the lack of opportunities given to them while On the other hand, STE learners cover most of the duties in the upcoming DSPC contest, even if it is outside of their curriculum to do so. By this, there is not much influence in removing SPJ curriculum to the STE

I think the school should match the contest with the curriculum. For instance, if the contest is about journalism, the school should use the SPJ curriculum to organize the contest.

- Jasmin Joy C. Juban SPJ Student

students for they are used to being subjected to pressure out of everything.

There also comes the problem of the lack of resources of the SPJ students, and

SPJ students need to step up their game and live up to their curriculum as their program is specialized in journalism.

- Hannah Sofia P. Patrimonio STE Student

financially, STE is more backed up on this aspect that benefits them when it comes to the conditions of contests.

None of the students should be blamed for dealing with such circumstances, it’s up to the school itself to improve its ways to help the students learn in an environment that is healthy and comfortable towards everyone. In desperate measures, it is overdue to change the current course of the school. Yet, it is not too late for its operations to be a better and fair administration to avoid shadowing over the potential of the school’s youth.

Samantha Cañasa

Talk

Cartoon • Eduardo Miña

Cartoon • Santino Yu

Hardships of many citizens root from their daily financial purchases to sustain their lives, specifically for rice prices, the inflation rate increases as the world market only sees the benefit of the profit. Food is an essential uptake to survive, thus, not one individual can deny the presence of this aspect. The Philippines’ record has reached the highest rate since March 2009 when rice inflation was recorded at 22.9%, according to Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). If this continues to oppress the people, it is worth the attention to be addressed by none other than the government.

Last year in December 2023, a Magnitude of 7.4 offshore earthquake came across the City of Tandag, and according to the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Memorandum No. 022023, the operations undergoing and to undergo were halted to give time for rehabilitation of the affected areas and families. Such tragedy brought tremendous trauma to many citizens, and unfortunate consequences to students who were looking forward to the Christmas Party

The rice inflation rate continues to increase in the Philippines. According to PSA chief, Claire Dennis Mapa, rice inflation accelerated to 22.6% in January 2024. Compared to December 2023 which was 19.6%, these rates have a huge gap and are really alarming. He further explained that the rice prices in the world market are significantly high. These prices will bring struggles to the citizens. Some people can’t afford this much, it will only add up to the financial problems that they are already facing. The Philippines is already suffering from poverty due to financial problems. Making it also suffer because of poverty in food is distressing for the people.

To illustrate, the

Aliah

- Hannah Rosil Concerned Elpanian

PSA chief said, the PSA monitored that the movements in the average prices of three main rice classes —regular milled, well-milled, and special— saw about P10 to P11 per kilogram increase year-on-year. He added that the rice inflation is expected to be 20% or higher until July. This is very alarming and should be addressed immediately. The people in the Philippines should work together in order to solve the crisis of rice inflation. Thankfully, the government is already making a move towards this issue.

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)

Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the DA would continuously monitor on-the-ground situations and guide

Alarming Threat

Undesirable Rise

the government in addressing food production concerns.

The Philippines is a rice-loving country, therefore, rice inflation is a huge issue. Filipinos who are living in poverty are already seeking help towards addressing this issue. Many continue to complain about the high prices. Despite the continued slowdown in the overall inflation seen in January, the rice inflation rate is still increasing, the PSA stated. With this continuous increase, a lot will be affected negatively, especially those in poverty. It is just right for all Filipinos to find a way to help deal with rice inflation. As everyone will be affected by this, everyone should also be the one to find solutions before completely

The Disturbing Factors

Struggles Met By Education

Asuffering from inflation.

Rice is part of the daily lives of Filipinos. The rice inflation brings threat not only towards the pockets of the people but also to their culture. As a citizen of the Philippines, having concerns about this matter is normal. A country who’s rich in agricultural resources should experience prosperity in food. The people shouldn’t suffer. Therefore, in every step of the leaders, we should support them if it means to better the lives of the Filipinos. Integrity is what we need to have a much more abundant country. In this issue, even the rich are complaining, so the poor might be severely suffering.

There are no exceptions in rice inflation. Even the rich and especially the poor suffer in this food crisis.

- Valerie Samson

s disheartening as it is, this school year is going by so fast and has experienced many disruptions of school schedules because of unexpected natural disasters hitting Tandag City. The students are the ones victimized if ever the number of school days are risked, at the same time, let alone face the calamities they did not intend.

everyone was supposed to enjoy celebrating.

This brings the community back to the Massive Flooding by Bagyong Auring three years ago on February 21, 2021, a tragic experience to face at around the same period of time. Likewise, several warnings of Orange Rainfall were issued by National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) ever since the start of New Year 2024 and caused suspension of classes multiple times. It brought heavy delay to the lessons supposed to be tackled in a certain time schedule, and

will face the problem of shortened time intervals for proper discussions.

In addition, the main reason why DepEd proposed the suggestion to the school year schedule was because of the severe heat experienced during the hottest three months of March-May called Summer. No one knows, if the inclement weather carries on up till the end of this school year, it will be deemed irrelevant to pursue this year. At this point, it should not even be the top priority of the school organization when many more major events are piling up

Youth Matters

An Action For Positivity

Cases of mental health issues in Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS) continues to rise over time, affecting the victims and everyone that surrounds them. In a world full of difficulties, mental health is a must to take care of. Especially in schools where young students spend most of their time.

Many students in Jacinto (Elpanians) had been reported to the Guidance Office regarding their harmful doings, such as self harm and attempt suicide. In a recent interview with Sir Rajie Mohamad Abdelgafur, guidance counselor of JPENHS, he stated that 3 out of 10 Elpanians suffer from mental health issues. Additionally, according

on their paperwork as the Department to be trusted with the

Education of students. Education is a very broad important aspect in life that needs focus to be explored suitably. Thus, One must remember, continuous hindrances will only delay progress,

to him, common reasons are family pressure or treatments, students’ social media exposure, bullying in school, academic pressure, etc. The students who suffer can also affect those around them. Although it is not transmitted physically, emotions of one person can affect the emotions of others. Especially those who are close to

the victims, knowing that someone dear to them is suffering, they are also at risk of mental health issues. Comforting others is a good thing. However, one shouldn’t let others’ mental health issues affect them. The students’ own feelings are the most important to them. Additionally, the school should attend to all students and not just the victims.

Thankfully, the school already launched a club, the Peer Mediators Club, to help students in need of assistance with mental health. It has the goal of creating a positive environment. As someone with a heart and conscience, who wouldn’t want to be in positivity?

Do not distress yourself with dark imaginings

Mission

Hannah Rosil

Cartoon • Eduardo Miña

Most of the officers elected are from the Reformation of Integration of the School for Elpanians or also known as RISE Party, the winning political party during the election and the past batch as well. According to the survey conducted, 80% of the students in Elpa High think the performance shown by leaders from this party list have been proven to be credible and trustworthy enough for Elpanians to support the legacy throughout but holding the same ideals as the original upholders, it is still difficult to lead in the same way your role model can. From the platforms they advocated during

Cristel Tripole Current Status

Leaders To Showcase

With the current performance of the administration today, can the Elpanians say they’ve successfully reached their goal as deserving to be ones with authority? The Supreme Student Leader Government or also known as SSLG has held a credible reputation ever since the organization was assembled, filled with student leaders helping one another to make the school a better community, in today’s standing, it is hard to determine if they still hold the same objective with their faint achievements.

their campaign to observing if they fulfilled such promises, 3 out of 5 students are not satisfied with the current administration’s movement. Goes to show the majority opposes the leadership SSLG of today offers.

This perspective is reasonable as the projects they raised and promised to adapt inside the campus are not accessible to all Elpanians, or if it is, limited only and not to many. For instance, the mini library that is supposed to be established in each department. There is a mini library located at the Grade 10 stage but when you ask a wandering Elpanian about this, they can’t

share enough thoughts because the project is not even promoted properly and exposed sufficiently.

As a matter of fact, 60% of Elpanians claim the previous batch showed more movement during their term than the ongoing batch. It deems to the public that they still have more fields to improve on, especially on the “boosting” part of their ideas, their efforts to reach this position will go down the drain if they continue this act of being a lowkey organization. Also, whenever they execute a certain plan, it is expected that it will be done with topmost efforts and hardwork

the hillcrest speaks!

Letter To The Editor

Dear Editor,

Computer Laboratories have been existing for more than a decade in our school JPENHS, however the services that these rooms offer are not evident to the students who are learning. In the daily schedule of learners, the subject Creative Technology is applicable, and mainly it covers digital aspects and desktop components to enhance Elpanians’ minds to the future technology. Yet the first and foremost source to start is missing from the four corners of the very environment itself, desktop computers. Although the school makes a move and tries to address the issue, it looks like the effort is not pursued given that it has been years since this problem.

One of the many causes of the unavailability of these equipment are because of the negligence of the school organization, mistreatment of the ones using it, and being derived from the proper knowledge to operate the tools involved. The school year is nearing its end, and it becomes only a fleeting thought to want to get a hold of technologies given by the school. It’s hard to blame the association for they are also partaking in actions to increase the budget for improved facilities. But, as a student, who is concerned about the future adventurous youth that will occupy the space that will be left by the previous batches’, my voice will hopefully reach those with power.

so that it will reach the standards of the students and the school deserve.

Though, they still have the remaining school year as a chance to accommodate what they can benefit with their power and position. What they should implement must not contradict the thought of SSLG being the voice and ears of Elpanians. Given that they are the chosen trustworthy ones, they must show the students they can be proud to showcase their leaders.

Insights By Elpanians

Do you think the vendors are improving the performance of Elpanian students?

- Yes, this will help them be motivated to go to school. Instead of going outside the school’s premises to buy the different kinds of variety of drinks, they can now look forward for another day in school.

- Jennymelle Conales

- No, regular consumption of caffeine and sugary drinks is not conducive to a healthy lifestyle. It can lead to heart palpitations and may have long-term implications in students’ health.

- Jane Lopez

- Yes, they are now offered a convenient way to access their personal interests within an affordable budget. This will also benefit the staff of the school, for them to take a little break when on duty.

- Janesa Sitoy

- No, the disposal method of certain drink materials can contribute to increased plastic waste, fostering an environmentally unfriendly and polluted school environment.

- Ayessa Soriano

Elpanian students opinion regarding the Supreme Student Leader Government (SSLG)

Data from SPJ, SPA, BEC, TVE, STE students

elpametrics

80%

60%

Elpanian students agreed with the performance of current administration matching that of the previous

Elpanian students claimed previous batch showed more movement when compared to the ongoing

Letter To The Editor

Dear Editor,

There have been countless big decisions the school has made just to adjust to the decrease of the institution’s buildings. Such decisions include influencing certain students’ time tables to suit the accessibility to everyone, despite not being convenient to the proper education one must attain. I’m talking about the daily half day classes some curriculums in Grade 10 are facing. Although they all have the same amount of subjects taken, the students within those specific curriculums are suffering from limited time, not following the usual whole day schedule.

This is due to the recent status of the old Grade 10 Buildings that have already been half destroyed because of how old it has been serving its purpose. Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS) is prioritizing the students’ safety by not letting them utilize the classrooms underneath this building, however, there is a shortfall on their acknowledgement of how the students might cope with the consequences of their decision. It looks like it will still take a long time to restore the situation, but I hope there will be at least movement and announcement that will show how JPENHS care for the children they are raising.

Elpanian students who were not satisfied with the current administration

Elpanian students who were satisfied with the current administration

Samantha Cañasa Cartoon • Santino Yu

In palettes of black and white, light aglows in the dark sky

Elpa’s Open High School (OHS) curriculum offers a new perspective of hope and opportunity in education for students who struggle to meet the requirements of a regular class schedule. It enables them to continue learning without the burden of attending daily classes while coping with their physical and emotional circumstances through the use of distance learning.

Time sure comes at some point in life, where inevitable circumstances befall students. May it be, from getting the feeling of a huge gap and academic void between you as a student and your peers where, going back to square one seems like the only valid reason to fill the whole. Or facing the stark reality of

poverty entrenched in our country, compelling some students to pause their academic pursuits and toil with blood, sweat, and tears, in order to provide for themselves and their families who would not be able to fulfill the rigid requirement of regular class schedules.

Amidst these diverse trials, some learners find themselves grappling to continue pursuing their education. Which validates why Elpa’s OHSP stepping into frame, offers crucially invaluable assistance to those navigating such circumstances.

Open High School Program (OHSP) is an alternative mode of formal secondary

education run by the Bureau of Secondary Education (BSE) of the Department of Education (DepEd) of the Republic of the Philippines. The program extends a welcoming hand to a diverse array of learners, including elementary school graduates, high school drop-outs and

successful examinees of the Philippine Education Placement Test (PEPT) to complete secondary education in a purely distance learning mode. OHSP serves as the lamp opened in an atmosphere derived from color

An Elpanian known as “Chelle,” a 16-year-

old girl, is one of the students enrolled in the program. Chelle is a victim of teenage pregnancy. Considering that abortion is illegal in the Philippines, it leaves Chelle no choice but to bear the child, entailing the sacrifice of an individual’s personal life. In doing so, Chelle shared how she can no longer find time for herself and was deprived of the most priceless instrument a person could ever have, education.

“I’ve thought about ending my own life since I was as good as dead by not being able to go to school, and disappointing my parents,” said Chelle. The dreams of the young woman became so distant, replaced by the harsh reality of her situation. However, “blessing sagud sab ang bata” (a child is still a blessing), she added. Regrets may linger, but they do not define a mother.

It might be hard but I needed to keep striving for me and my child’s future, discovering Elpa’s OHSP helped and motivated me to continue.

- Chelle A student enrolled in JPENHS’ OHSP

For privileged students, OHSP may not seem like much, but for students like Chelle, it made her discover a renewed sense of purpose and possibility, breathing life into her dreams for the future. With its transformative approach to education, OHSP not only imparts academic knowledge but also cultivates moral fortitude and personal growth. Indeed, for Chelle and countless others, OHSP serves as a guiding light on their journey to reclaiming their education and embracing a brighter tomorrow filled with promise and opportunity.

How do you show your love to others?

Follow The Hillcrest on our socials to manifest your inner feelings today!

In February’s embrace, each living soul unfurls their heart, unveiling their boldest expression of affection for the ones they hold dear. Amidst the chaotic crowd where identities blur and everyone minds their own business, a bona fide Elpa High student always stands out, whether in groups or solitude. ‘What does it truly feel like to be loved by an Elpanian?’ a visiting student asks, stirring contemplation with a single question. But well, how exactly? Here’s quite a guide to the 5 love languages of an Elpanian.

Acts of Service

As the saying goes, action speaks louder than words. There are two best examples of how Elpanians portray acts of service to their loved ones.

The services made by the schools student leader, the Supreme Secondary Leader Government (SSLG), and the sacrifices made by the Elpa teachers who provides knowledge and learnings in an Elpanian’s journey to keep the tradition and sustaining excellence.

Sticking to their promise and emphasis to their administrative motto, “We Lead. We Serve,” Elpa High’s student leaders proudly stands up with pride and confidence in providing services to combat the challenges faced by the students, protect the welfare of the students, to create change and development in the school, and help the citizens in the community.

Whether being the voice of the campus or becoming “front-liners” of service for all Elpanians, it is without a doubt that the SSLG provides service without any hesitation and open to all.

Elpa’s SSLG is not the only one who expresses acts of services as a love language to Elpanians. The commitment and dedication of Elpanian teachers to create lessons, regardless of sleepless nights, finishing

learning competencies in class sessions, creating presentations, creating test questions, all those sacrifices made by the teachers are also considered as a love language in Elpa in the perspective of the teachers.

In line with the tradition, Elpa teachers value education among its students, thus their compassion towards teaching the students of Elpa is an Elpanian Love language in nature and it is enough to be an award for their sacrifices made.

Physical Touch

In moments of triumph, the touch of an Elpanian ignites like fireworks, celebrating victory with exuberance.

Whether it’s a congratulatory hug, a highfive pulsating with shared joy, or a triumphant hand squeeze, their physical touch amplifies the euphoria, affirming bonds and sealing memories of success with warmth and connection.

Yet, in every victory gained will also suffer defeat, and in times of disheartenment, an Elpanian never hesitates to lend their shoulders and offer a hug that serves as a balm, a silent reassurance amidst the chaos. A gentle embrace, a comforting hand on the shoulder, or a tender caress speaks volumes, conveying love,

Elpa ‘High-Classic’

empathy, and solace without uttering a single word.

Quality Time

In the bustling corridors where errands lead them to pass by various sections, the glimpses of vibrant interactions between teachers and students peak.

Laughter cascades, accompanied by the harmonious melody of shared jokes resonating through the rooms. Despite the sometimes fearsome reputation of Ma’am Anino from circulating rumors, nothing replaces all the exchanged smiles, shared chuckles, and playful banter—the bond that only Elpanians and Ma’am Anino could ever share.

Receiving Gifts

You can always run to Elpanians, especially in desperate times of need, as moments of inevitable calamities unfold, and the cries of affected Elpanians yearn to be heard, Elpa’s SSLG consistently finds ways to extend its support and generosity to those in need through voluntary donations, with the support of kind-hearted Elpa students.

Whether it be preloved clothes, pillows, blankets, food, or money for groceries, it’s a very simple way for Elpanians to show unity and ‘bayanihan’ in times of crisis.

Words of Affirmation

During the lowest moments of a student’s life, whether it be family, friends, school, or personal problems, it doesn’t require a genius to figure out that the nearest Elpanian would always recognize their fellow students’ struggles and wouldn’t need to ponder whether or not they should offer comfort with the right and soothing words. That things have to get

worse before they get better, and they wouldn’t abhor you for expressing how you feel. When one feels like no one understands, an Elpanian will listen and believe.

Exploring Dubai: A Tale of Opposites

Dubai, UAE’s crown jewel, is a real contrast-lover’s paradise. When I landed there from Manila in the wee hours of the morning, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The airport was buzzing with people from all over the world, but it wasn’t hard to spot fellow Filipinos, who added a touch of familiarity to this foreign place.

Our first stop was the Burj Al Arab, an architectural marvel that looked like a majestic sailboat floating on the

water. It was surreal to walk through the halls that had hosted so many famous people like Justin Bieber, Gigi & Bella Hadid, Roger Federer and many more. Next up was the Museum of the Future, a place that made you

Samantha Canasa

Santino Yu

Photo • SantinoYu

‘High-Classic’ Love

Days turn into and weeks

plopping down for a long period of time, listening to the teacher blab lessons, and watching

feel like you were in the future itself, with all its innovative ideas and mind-blowing designs.

It is an intricate ovalshaped structure where its stunning façade is covered with quotes in Arabic calligraphy.

“The Frame” was another must-visit spot for me. It looks like a humongous picture frame but it is actually an observatory,

Striking a Balance

arious Elpanians share how they keep themselves healthy and fit while achieving their academic needs and without leaving their responsibilities all at the same time.

in front with the faintest hint of break time, it feels as if the world basically just stops spinning. As becoming a student generally requires to mandatorily do these things daily and still take home assignments that last up until who knows what time, as well as getting assigned with additional tasks on weekends. One could no longer care for their physical fitness. So how could Elpanians possibly find time to go to the gym and work out while simultaneously tackling tests and quarterly grades?

Not being addressed enough, one’s physical well-being is equally as important as intellectual growth.

monument, and museum. It’s this tower that’s supposed to represent the past, present, and future of Dubai, and it’s designed in a way that makes you look at the city from a whole new angle. Then there’s the Dubai Mall, which is just huge! Amidst its labyrinthine corridors are myriad displays of items from high-end boutiques to

Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for fostering long-term well-being, offering benefits that extend beyond the purely physical sense.

Social and Emotional Benefits

Bearing heavy academic responsibilities becomes inevitable upon taking a step into the realm of secondary-level school.

“Time management is always the key” may sound familiar, for it is always what teachers recommend; however, students simply cannot heed these words as the overwhelming academic burden catches up to them.

“I used to suffer from stress due to school workloads, and I still do, but when I started

cultural attractions.

The Miracle Garden was another surprise for me. In the middle of the desert, this place blooms with life, creating this beautiful oasis with flowers as far as the eye can see. It felt like a breath of fresh air amidst all the skyscrapers and modernity.

A trip to Dubai wouldn’t be complete

going to the gym, it lifted a burden on me, for throughout the process I gained a clearer mind, a better mindset, and I felt strong physically and mentally, which helped me manage to conquer my academic stress,” shared Jhon Dagohoy, a fellow alumni at Elpa. It is well-documented that physical activity and exercise helps’ lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels as well as enabling them to develop their social skills leading to a more positive mindset and increased self-confidence.

“Now I’m more focused in class and more confident in answering questions. I had stage fright but now I can stand on stage without fearing the perspective of people in front of me,” Jhon added.

without visiting the Palm Jumeirah, a manmade island shaped like a palm tree. Seeing it against the backdrop of the ocean is just breathtaking, and it’s a testament to the city’s ambition and creativity.

But my favorite part of the trip was spending some time in the desert. The vast, open space was just so peaceful and beautiful, and it

Feeling stronger and achieving fitness goals also enhances self-esteem and overall well-being and providing opportunities for connection and camaraderie at the same time!

Psychological Benefits

It is no uncommon knowledge that numerous teenagers go through phases grappling with self-body image issues. Body dysmorphia stands out among young people impacting them both physically and psychologically and potentially lead to mental health issues.

“I needed a way to cope, and by lifting weights, it gave me peace. Seeing pictures of me disgusted me and made me want to develop a physique

was a thrill to go offroading and explore the dunes. In the evening, we ended up at this amazing spot where we had traditional entertainment and food under the stars. It was truly magical.

In the end, my time in Dubai wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was a journey of contrasts. It was a place where ancient

where I could at least look at my body and not feel insecure while not turning my back on my academic responsibilities at the same time,” shared Earl Ascarez, a 10thgrade student from the Science, Technology, and Engineering program.

Emphasizing the importance of education and physical well-being is akin to recognizing the body’s brain and spinal cord, as they are equally vital.

In the pursuit of education, paramount thought it may be. To solely fixate on it only leads a student’s wellbeing to bid goodbye. Without consideration of circumstances, a body lacking the nutrients and daily exercise it needs will bring a student nowhere but inside the nearby hospital.

traditions and modern innovations coexist in perfect harmony, and every corner had something new and exciting to offer. I left with memories of a place where dreams really do come true, and where the possibilities seem endless. I can’t wait to go back.

Samantha Cañasa Cartoon • Eduardo Miña

Chinese Chamber: A Hidden Gem in Tandag City

Tucked away in the heart of Tandag City, there’s an unassuming old wooden building that’s been standing for generations. Most locals probably wouldn’t even give it a second glance. But this humble abode has a fascinating history and a story to tell. It’s known to the older folks as the “Chinese Chamber,” and it holds within its walls a rich tapestry of culture and heritage.

At first glance, the building looks weathered and worn, like something out of a history book. It’s easy to miss the intricate details and the stories they hold. But back in the day, this was the first Chinese school in Mindanao after World War II, and it played a significant role in educating the Chinese community and introducing their culture to the region.

The Chiao Sing Chinese School was established in 1948, when the Chinese community in Tandag and Tago pooled their resources to purchase a plot of land in Poblacion Tandag.

They built the school there, hoping to pass on their traditions and knowledge to the next generation.

The curriculum was diverse, covering everything from math

and history to English and Filipino, and even Chinese calligraphy.

Classes were held from early morning till late afternoon, with the afternoons dedicated to Chinese language and culture.

The school even had student organizations like scouts, bugle corps, and drawing clubs, attracting kids from all over the country. But as the businesses of the Chinese incorporators

declined, the school struggled to stay afloat, eventually closing its doors after over three decades of service. Today, the old Chinese Chamber still stands in Barangay Bungtod, a testament to the community’s determination to keep their history alive. For many former students, it holds cherished memories of their time there. Mr. Ely Lim, who studied at the school

during the Martial Law years, recalls the strict discipline and the student police who would spank students if they didn’t meet the school’s high standards. Despite the tough environment, Lim remembers the school as a place where he learned important life lessons and made lasting friendships.

The Old Chinese Chamber in Tandag City is more than just

an old building; it’s a living piece of history that tells the story of a resilient community and their efforts to preserve their culture and heritage. So next time you’re walking past it, take a moment to appreciate the old wooden walls and the memories they hold. You never know what stories they might tell.

Photo • Jasmine Goforth Samantha Cañasa

Ayessa Soriano

EXPLORING THE WONDERS OF NATURE

Beaching of juvenile sardines in Mindanao, boon or bane?

In the islands of the Philippines, where crystal clear waters meet beaches there is a phenomenon that has always fascinated coastal communities; the frequent gathering of fish near the shore.

In the islands of the Philippines, where crystal clear waters meet beaches, there is a phenomenon that has always fascinated coastal communities; the frequent gathering of fish near the shore.

Recently, viral posts in social media from places like Maasim, Sarangani, Samal in Davao, Buluan Island in Zamboanga have seen massive quantities of fish being washed up ashore.

This natural wonder, often seen as a boon for

Institute of Volcanology and Seismology recorded a Magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck 154 kilometers southeast of Sarangani town in Davao Occidental, two days later. Coincidence? We don’t know.

Throughout history, fishermen have shared stories of observing unusual behaviors in marine life before natural calamities strike.

both fishermen and locals might hold meanings beyond its charm. However, is the abundance of fish close to the shore a warning sign of disaster or nature’s gift?

The presence of millions of glittery juvenile sardines trashing and jumping in the shorelines of Brgy. Tinoto in Maasim, Sarangani came to the fore. Although the residents were ecstatic of the bounty given to them by the sea, it was replaced with fear when the Philippine

From legends to accounts of older folks, there is a common belief that an unexpected influx of fish in shallow waters could be a forewarning of impending misfortune.

However, scientists attributed this phenomenon to upwelling. Upwelling happens when winds that blow across the ocean surface push water away, making

Cartoon • Sophia Avila

Time to Wrap

H

the water beneath the surface rise up to the surface to replace the water that was pushed away.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), water that rises to the surface as a result of upwelling is colder and is rich in nutrients. These nutrients are brought forth to shallow waters thereby triggering blooms of

plankton.

Since these small sardines or commonly called “lupoy” feed on these plankton, it was likely that these little silvery fish followed their food into the shorelines and got trapped there. Experts also cite other factors that contributed to the beaching of fish.

Aside from upwelling, overabundance of sardines, changes in conditions like fluctuations in water temperature, salinity levels and currents are also known to influence the movements and behaviors of marine creatures.

aesthetic appeal, it conveys a profound message about the interconnectedness of all life forms and the delicate balance of our world.

Although the authorities downplayed the relationship between the fish phenomenon and the earthquake as merely a coincidence, we still must listen to nature’s messages. Beyond its

ave you ever glanced at the clock during a seemingly endless lecture only to find that mere minutes have passed? For ages, philosophers and scientists have struggled to solve the mystery of time perception. But don’t worry, current science has shed light on why time seems to slow down in class.

Our brains are remarkable timekeepers, but they can also play tricks on us. When we’re fully engaged in learning, our brains go into overdrive, processing a flood of information. This heightened mental activity causes time to seemingly slow down. It’s like our brains are stretching out the moments to fit more in.

According to research in cognitive psychology, our perception of time is not as straightforward as it seems. Instead, it’s

linked to our mental processes and levels of attention. Our brains are working hard to quickly encode and analyze information as we get deeper intothe subject. A subjective sensation of time dilation, in which every instant seems to be stretched out and full of rich experiences and memories, may result from this increased cognitive activity. In other words, the more the brain works, the slower time appears to pass. One scientific explanation for this

phenomenon comes from the theory of “proportional theory.” When our brains are processing a large amount of information, such as when we are deeply engaged in learning or problemsolving tasks, time seems to pass more slowly because our brains are effectively “filling” the subjective time interval with more experiences and memories.

Conversely, when individuals are engaged in tasks that require high levels of

attention and mental effort, such as learning complex material or performing demanding tasks, time tends to slow down.

So, the next time you find yourself in class, feeling like time has come to a standstill, remember that your brain is hard at work, processing a wealth of information. Time may still remain in mysterious force, but by unraveling its secrets in the classroom, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own cognitive processes

and how they shape our perception of the world around us. Let’s embrace the timeless journey of learning and see where it takes us.

In doing so, we honor not only the wisdom of nature but also acknowledge our responsibility to steward and preserve the delicate harmony of our planet.

Ayessa Soriano

Cartoon • Eduardo Miña

Source • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Schildren, particularly in families where social and environmental factors already put them at risk for poor health outcomes.

An imbalanced mentality often goes hand-in hand with other health and behavioral risks, such as a higher chance of drug use, suffering violence,

and engaging in risky sexual practices that raise the possibility of contracting HIV, STDs, and unplanned pregnancy. These risks are slowly becoming more prevalent in schools. Relationships become fractured due to blurry communication among individuals. Conflicts are not uncommon in the

Vector • Samantha Cañasa

Sorry: A Ticket to Mental Balance

Students are constantly under pressure, not only in school but also with their peers, their lives outside school, and their environment. As students journey through academic and social challenges, oftentimes they encounter situations that do not seem right, which leads them to the big question: are they the ones who should apologize, or does the world owe them an apology? Would it change an ounce of what’s happening if “sorry” was heard?

During the pandemic, students were given free access to the internet, as online classes or distant learning were the mode of schooling. Not only did the school prioritize the academic performance

lives of students, whether they involve interactions with students or with teachers. Apologies also demonstrate accountability and empathy, showing a willingness to take responsibility for one’s actions and consider the feelings of others. In educational settings, fostering a culture of

of the students, they also aimed to give importance to their social, physical, and mental health wellness, all of which can reduce stress and help prevent negative outcomes. However, with the implementation of lockdown, many schoolbased services were disrupted, adding to the stress and burden on parents as well as potentially having an impact on the long-term health of both parents and

sincere apologies can lead to a more positive and supportive community where conflicts are resolved constructively.

The word “sorry” holds significant weight. For students, the act of apologizing has a profound impact on their mental well-being, affecting self-esteem, emotional regulation,

and interpersonal relationships. It helps build trust, restore fractured relationships, relieve hurt feelings, and reinstate reputation.

People do not realize the amount of power they have in their hands with just a simple, “I’m sorry.”

Using the power of this word helps people feel valued and

Beachgoers beware:

respected, to let them know they matter, and to look for the answer to a question lingering in their thoughts yet to be answered: are they the ones who should apologize, or does the world owe them an apology?

‘Tis the season for Portuguese man o’ war

urrounded by the ocean, the Philippines is filled with colorful marine life. There are over 2,500 species of fish and more than 500 types of corals living in our waters. It’s not uncommon to see all sorts of sea creatures while you’re out for a swim or a boat ride. Recently, people have been spotting something called the Portuguese Man o’ war, which locals call

The Portuguese Man o’ war (Physalia physalis) is a really cool-looking sea creature that gets its name from 18th century Portuguese warships. They were mistaken for jellyfish back then, but they’re actually siphonophore, which means they’re related to jellies. You can find them in warm waters all over the world’s oceans.

A siphonophore is actually made up of lots of tiny, specialized animals called zooids, which all work

together to help the creature survive. There are four main types of zooids in man-o’- war: ones that float, ones that catch food, ones that eat food, and ones that make babies. They all look different from each other, but they all work as a team to keep the Man o’ war alive. According to National Ocean Service (NOA), the most noticeable part of the Man o’ war is its big, colorful balloon, which can be blue, purple, or pink. It sticks out of the water and can be as big as a basketball! Underneath the balloon, there are long, thin tentacles

that can stretch out for up to 30 meters (or about 100 feet)!

These tentacles are called nematocystsa stinging cells that work like a fisherman’s spear dipped in venom. When the nematocyst comes in contact with other sea creatures or a person , hundreds of these tiny spears fire into the target, each delivering a dose of venom into the unsuspecting victim.

While the man-o’war doesn’t usually kill anyone, its sting can really hurt! The sting can last for a long time - up to an hour or more - and leave a big, red welt on your

skin. It can also make you feel really sore and achy. However, if it so happens that one is allergic to its venom, a

If possible, please don’t go swimming, especially the children. I don’t want you to go through the pain that I experienced.

If I could hardly bear it, what more for the children?

- Balot Zenitram A concerned citizen

person can experience anaphylactic shock or a severe and lifethreatening allergic reaction. One needs to go to the hospital immediately.

A local guy named Balot Zenitram warned people about the Man o’ war in a post on social media. He said that he got stung by one and it was super painful. He advised everyone to stay out of the water at the beach until the Man o’ war goes away.

People had lots of different ideas about how to treat a Man o’ war sting. Some people said to use coconut vinegar, while others

suggested peeing on it!

But the experts at the University of HawaiiManoa say that the best thing to do is to rinse the area with vinegar first and then put a hot compress on it for 45 minutes. That should help ease the pain and get rid of any stingers. So, be careful out there in the water! The Man o’ war might look pretty, but it can pack a mean sting. Stay safe and keep an eye out for each other. And if you do happen to get stung, remember to rinse it off with vinegar and put a hot compress on it. Your skin will thank you later!

Manok -manok, off the coast of Cagwait, Bayabas and Tandag City.

Jamelah Baldomero

Janesa Sitoy

Jamelah Baldomero

SHEDDING BLOOD FOR LOVE

How Swiftlet birds brave noise disruption and ground-based predators to protect their precious young

In skies where birds fly, swiftlets swing skyhigh. Their appearance shows an incredible design, with wide wings and a pointy beak, no wonder they shine. But more than flight, their nest stun, made from saliva, a precious one. In Chinese medicine, a bird’s nest soup molds, nutrients for the skin and health is what it holds.

One might wonder, why do swiftlet birds choose to nest in the corners of a JPENHS school library, of all places? The answers can be found in their instinctive wisdom. These corners offer not only protection from ground-based predators but also points for monitoring the

surroundings. This choice reflects not just adaptability but also a nesting instinct that drives them to look for secure locations, despite human activity.

Speaking of which, swiftlets can tolerate

the hustle and bustle of humans. Despite the disturbances, they show adaptability, eventually becoming familiar with the tempo of human life. Their toughness comes from a strong need to protect their babies, a drive so powerful that it’s more important than any noise they might hear.

Swiftlet birds can be terrestrial caretakers. They show behaviors that mirror human

parents by staying in their nests, and preventing potential threats when the noise becomes too much. However, the corners of a school library, with all their noise and activity, still offer a hideout, providing safety from predators.

It must be hard being a swiftlet bird, like a backburner of a toxic relationship, they endure all the red flags of an environment just

to survive and protect their kids. However, this story also tells us how colorful swiftlets can be in mixing adaptability, instinct, and toughness into who they are. Like birds of a feather, they flock together, looking for safety and finding comfort in the familiarity of their chosen locations.

Cartoon • Santino Yu Vector • Samantha Cañasa

Manage waste for a better space

Waste is a problem globally. The Philippines is one of the top waste generators in Southeast Asia, producing at least 61,000 metric tons of waste daily, of which 24% is plastic waste. Sometimes, these wastes are not managed properly. Thus, causing pollution.

The Philippines has been struggling with pollution. Pollution is a result of various factors including low recycling rates, problems in waste collection, and inconsistency in plastic packaging segregation in many Local Government Units (LGU). Due to the country’s low recycling rate, only 9% is recycled, while 33% is collected. This explains as why the Philippines is recognized as one of the top contributors to pollution globally. Furthermore, some of the waste end up in bodies of water. At least 19 rivers including Pasig, Tullahan, and Meycauayan rivers are one the top waterways that emit plastic.

Adequate

Waste disposal, landfill sites and recycling facilities lack in many LGUs. as such infrustractures.Due to this, some citizens opt to burn their waste, which causes environmental harm and health risks. Burning of trash may cause long-term health problems and air pollution. This is due to the harmful chemicals being released into the

Synthesis and Characterization of Lignocellulosic Bio-based Aerogel derived from Cardaba Banana (Musa accuminata x. balbisiana)

Researchers: Aldridge A. Aguhob, Marchzery Ashley B.

Maquiling, and Kimberly C. Alonzo

Coach: Marvin Y. Sumastre

Implementing Agency /School: JACINTO P. ELPA

NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Collaborating Agencies: NONE

Funding Agency: DOST PCIEERD

Project Duration: 7 MONTHS

Total Project Cost: PhP 366,600.00

atmosphere. In order to minimize the numbers of citizens burning trash, public awareness is a must.

Public attitude plays a significant role toward solid waste

management. A lot of consumers are not aware of the impacts their consumption on the environment. This is another reason why public awareness is important. Lack of awareness contribute to improper waste segregation and pollution. Thus, making it hard to ensure that the waste enter the right waste management steams. Waste is a huge problem. However, simple actions like doing the 3Rs which stands for Reduce Reuse Recycle will help in minimizing this problem. Additionally, avoiding single-use plastics is another simple way of helping the environment.

The research discusses the potential of using biopolymers derived from biomass, particularly lignocellulosic materials from banana waste, specifically from Cardaba Banana (Musa accuminata x. balbisiana), as precursors for synthesizing aerogels. It emphasizes the abundance and composition of lignocellulose, highlighting cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin as the primary components. The study suggests that banana waste, including stems and leaves, can serve as a valuable source of biopolymers for aerogel synthesis.

The synthesis process involves two steps: isolating cellulose and lignin from the banana leaves, and then synthesizing the

lignocellulose aerogel. The physical and chemical properties of the isolated biomass and the synthesized aerogel will be

analyzed using various techniques such as FTIR spectrophotometry, thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy,

simultaneous thermal analysis, and measurements of density, pore volume, swelling ratio, and swelling properties at different temperatures. The study aims to showcase the potential of using agricultural waste like banana stems for developing sustainable and high-performance materials with various applications.

Aerogels, due to their nanoporous structure, exhibit excellent thermal insulation properties, making them suitable for

various applications. However, they often lack sufficient mechanical strength, which the researchers aim to improve. Studies have explored methods to enhance aerogel properties, including incorporating them into construction materials.

Additionally, aerogels have diverse applications beyond insulation, including drug delivery, energetic composites, chemical sensors, and nuclear waste containment. The study details a process for isolating cellulose and lignin from banana

leaves and synthesizing lignocellulosic aerogels, followed by an analysis of their physicochemical properties.

The research underscores the potential of utilizing agricultural waste, such as banana stems, for sustainable and high-performance materials development, highlighting the multifaceted applications and benefits of aerogels.

Jamelah Baldomero Cartoon • Santino Yu

Marvin Sumastre

SCIENCE INNOVATION. Members of the JPENHS Aerogel Team, together with the school Principal, Dr. Evelyn C. Bandoy during the signing of contract at PICC, Manila last October 26, 2023.

JPENHS boys

As long as we work as one, we win as one.

- Jude Alcantara

COHESIVE TEAM. United on the court, victorious in spirit. Elpa volleyball team’s seamless coordination led them to victory.

Volleyball Team dominates TNSHS, secures Regional appearance Dream high, Elpa high!

Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS) Boys Volleyball Team showed true heart of a champion as they relentlessly bludgeon Tandag National Science High School (TNSHS), in their bid to advance to the Regional finals to defend their Caraga Athletic AssociationRegional Sports Competition (CAA-RSC) title, in a lopsided Best-of-Three Championship Match, 25-1, 25-6, in the recently concluded 2024 Tandag City Selection Meet at the JPENHS Covered Court, on Saturday, February 17.

It was a great team effort shown by Elpa High BVT as they exhibited a great display of teamwork on the cusp of defending their CAA-RSC Championship title.

“I’m proud of the fact that we overcame the TNSHS-Mens Volleyball Team because that team is still formidable and difficult to beat,” said Alcantara, who led the Elpa High BVT.

The game started with Elpa High

dominating both offense and defense, as they annihilated the opposing team helping them pull away and clinched the set, 25-1, in a surprising upset.

In the final set, the Elpa High’s excellent defensive prowess and fueled by impenetrable offense resulted in a 25-6 scoreboard, limiting TNSHS scoring opportunities in straight sets gaining another cChampionship title throughout the years.

“Our main tactics/ secret when it comes to the game is to maintain our communication during the game and to maintain our morale on the court to keep us active in the game, if one of our teammates is feeling weak or making errors, we cheer them up while still maintaining our teamwork,” said Labasano, when asked about their overall performance.

“It is a mix of emotions as we once

again entered the CAARSC to defend our title last year,” Alcantara added.

Elpa High Boys Volleyball Team will advance to a higher level of competition and join in the upcoming 2024 Caraga Athletic Association - Regional Sports Competition representing Tandag City with 11 more participating teams on May 5 - 11, 2024 at Patin-ay, Agusan Del Sur.

Elizalde rules table tennis tilt, completes round sweep for CARAGA berth

With great determination, Luke Arthur Elizalde from Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS), won the championship title against Russel Estapia of Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. National High School (VLPSNHS) in the flawless field of Table Tennis, during the 2024 Tandag City Selection Meet on February 16-18, at the Surigao Del Sur Sports Complex.

Elizalde’s elegance and skill in playing led him to the achievement of three consecutive wins to stay on track and secured a

slot for the upcoming Caraga Athletic Association-Regional Sports Competition.

The JPENHS standout triumphed in three grueling sets, 11-8 in the first set, 11-5 in the second, and 11-6 in the third set; his fixed focus and stance penetrated way to establish powerful backhands and sharp moves to totally dismantle the enemy and sealed the win.

Estapia put in a valiant effort, but it was Elizalde’s unparalleled determination,

dedication, and skill that ultimately ensured his three-match winning streak and pulled-off a convincing championship title to clinch a CAA-RSC ticket.

“It really feels great to win, and participate in a more prestigious competition, especially being an STE student athlete,” Elizalde stated.

With each victory, not only Elizalde but all athletes of JPENHS strengthened their team again in the overall standings and will represent Tandag City in the upcoming 2024 CAA-RSC.

sports feature

City Mayor backs Athletes’ Sports Development

Tandag City Mayor Roxanne Pimentel is steadfast in developing the prowess of studentathletes, vowing to provide aid to support and strengthen the athletes capabilities and to be more prepared in the upcoming competitions.

City Councilor Kharin Momo delivered the message on behalf of Mayor Pimentel at the annual opening of the City Selection Meet on February 16. Various young athletes from different schools commenced in taking part of the City Selection Meet despite the short preparation to showcase camaraderie and sportsmanship.

Moreover, Pimentel said that, while medals and trophies are indicative of success, genuine achievement is rooted in resilience, perseverance, and dedication.

“I’d like to thank our City Mayor of Tandag, Hon. Roxanne Pimentel because she always supports our programs,” said Gregoria T. Su, Schools Division Superintendent in her official statement.

Dr. Su emphasized that the funds are meant to boost studentathletes with their endeavors in pursuit of honing studentathleticism.

On the other hand, the superintendent challenged the athletes to surpass Tandag’s 6th place stint last year in the prior Regional Athletic Meet.

The winners of each event from the City Selection Meet are to represent Tandag city to a higherlevel competition and compete in the upcoming 2024 Caraga Athletic Association Regional Sports Competition (CAA-RSC) on April 22-27 at Patinay, Agusan Del Sur.

Photo courtesy of Andrei Bolabola

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Photo by Ayessa Soriano

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JPENHS Athletics & Swimming - Boys and Girls Final Medal Tally for 2024 Division Athletic Meet

Data

STE studentathletes strengthen winning potential for CAA-RSC 2024 competitions 26

S

Guinsatao, a taekwondo

cience, Technology, and Engineering (STE) students of Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS) represented their curriculum with pride, displaying their talents and succeeding in their respective events, as they represented JPENHS, during the 2024 Tandag City Selection Meet, on February 16-18, 2024 at Surigao Del Sur Sports Complex, Tandag City.

With pride, confidence, and joy, STE studentathletes delivered an outstanding performance, giving their utmost effort, competing fiercely, and contributing to an unforgettable and

exhilarating City Selection Meet 2024 experience.

The STE studentathletes regardless of hectic schedule, still participated to showcase their versatility in the sports field.

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PenAlo tayo rito!

Penales-Malong bags two golds, secures two-peat title in women’s chess

Jemmarie G. Penales and Isabel C. Malong of Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS) successfully reclaimed the crown, after going undefeated in the game dominating a total of five rounds in the 2024 Tandag City Selection Meet, Chess Competition, February 17, at the Special Science Elementary School, Tandag City.

Earning the spot for Board 1, Penales, a grade twelve student, crushed the competition scoring an impressive 5-0. With her ninth grader Board 2, Malong, who settled for a score of 4.5-0.

In the battle of also-rans, Malong scored a draw against Saint Theresa College where Malong tried to gain back her momentum as things went intense. Her skewer tactics in the

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middle game gave her a one-piece advantage in the endgame closing the gap to avoid a shutout loss by conquering the win on Board 2.

Penales, in the fourth game displayed a stellar performance as she fought tooth and nail against Rosario Integrated School, as both players showed the eagerness to win, establishing a tight defense and movement. Soon their game turned upside

number of silver medals garnered by both boys and girls of JPENHS from athletics and swimming category.

down as Penales sneaked past the opponent in the fourth round, setting a tone for triumph. It was an overflowing joy felt by their coach and trainer as they successfully clinched another championship title. They took home a total of two gold medals in the Chess - Secondary Girls Category and will soon gear up in the CAARSC 2024 at, Agusan Del Sur.

of bronze

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JPENHS Dancesport hits four-gold mark, hauls 8 medals

Team of Jacinto P. Elpa National High School Dancesport danced their way to victory as they closed their campaign with 4 gold & 4 silver after showcasing impressive performance, during the 2024 Tandag City Selection Meet, at EDM Covered Court, February 17.

Modern Standard Discipline pair JP Perez and Hannah Cagata were able to finish the show with 4 medals : Best in Slow Waltz, Best in Tango, Best in Quickstep, and Best in Grade C.

National Science High School handbagged 4 silvers for Latin American Dance, Best in Cha-Cha, Best in Rumba, Best in Jive and Best in grade C.

we had given our best effort and left everything on the dance floor,” Perez said.

The couples will advance to the 2024

AIM HIGH. Penales-Malong plays a match in preparation for the upcoming CAA-RSC.

Photo by Analuz Borja

from Tandag City Division

number of gold medals garnered by both boys and girls of JPENHS from athletics and swimming category.

STRIVING FOR GOLD.

Pair JP Perez and Hannah Cagata giving all their best during the Tandag City selection meet.

Photo by Hannah Rosil

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sports analytics

AND BRAWN.

Photo by Floyd Morse

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number

medals garnered by both boys and girls of JPENHS from athletics and swimming category.

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FOR THE GREATER GLORY

Away from toxicity

During every competition, wave of emotions sweeps over everyone involved. This is especially noticeable at the City Division Selection Meet, where each school competes eagerly to win and showcase their pride for Tandag City

While aiming for victory is natural, it can sometimes lead to tension and bickering among and between the participants. Is this conflict really necessary when the main goal of such an event is to come as a united community?

Dr. Gregoria Su highlights that every person is born with great potential and endless possibilities. The City Meet provides a stage to display and validate the abilities of those selected to compete. With the theme “Igniting Potentials and Building Champions “ pressure becomes something shared by all competitors.

While it is understandable

to feel honored as winners it is important to remember the purpose of the annual event – giving student-athletes the chance to represent what Tandag City stands for.

Mayor Roxanne Pimentel of Tandag City echoes this idea stressing the role adults play in nurturing potential by offering support and guidance, for success in sports.

Furthermore, SDS Lacuna highlights the importance of patriotism by shifting the focus to the athletes themselves. The main objective is for them to serve as representatives of the area driven by their love for their country and their

community and unwavering in their determination despite any obstacles they may face on their journey, to success.

Ultimately, the results of the City Division Selection Meet do not define the entirety of an athlete’s potential. It is important to view this sporting event as a friendly face-off between schools, designed to challenge the skills of selected individuals.

Rather than manifesting negative energy, participants should unite in the pursuit of a common objective – victory for the greater glory of Tandag City.

Claire Nigparanon

Cartoon • Santino Yu sports editorial