The Mayumo
The Official Student Publication of San Miguel National High School
UNSHIELDED September 2021 - January 2022
Editor’s note
The Mayumo
UNSHIELDED
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This issue of The Mayumo collected stories of championing life despite the darkness, finding hope amid the hopelessness, and continuing to dream even when the times look bleak.
Face shields are pretty famous - all for the wrong reasons. Aside from being linked to government corruption, they have been subjected to a Senate investigation and public scrutiny. They have been imposed to be worn despite the lack of scientific evidence if they have any effect in preventing the wearer from getting the virus. For Filipinos who have long considered these pieces of plastic as a sign of restraint, it felt good. It felt free. This issue of The Mayumo collected stories of championing life despite the darkness, finding hope amid the hopelessness, and continuing to dream even when the times look bleak. As we gear towards regaining normalcy, we hope that this special issue inspires others, especially the youth of today, to aspire to become better and more resilient when we finally find the light at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel. Speak. Write. Be true. Be Free.
Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief (External)
Rinzen D. Gonzales
Editor-in-Chief (Internal)
Ma. Amberainne P. Mendoza Associate EDitors
Dann Emanuel M. Felipe Jeremias G. Pablo Managing Editors
Vanessa May R. Flores Richard Louie P. Lamorena News Editors
Matthew James B. Santos Bealin C. Beley
Letter to the editor Letter to the Editor mast head Editorial
Features Editor
Bea Denise G. Villanueva Andrea R. Mangalus Science Editor
Portia May R. Vargas Sports Editor
Jed Rogem C. Santos
Chief Cartoonists
Jenina Katrice D. Alvañiz Butch Miguel B. Bautista
Dear Editor:
Greetings! I hope all is well with you. I’m writing to congratulate you and the entire The Mayumo publication on releasing another volume of the school paper. I genuinely hope that The Mayumo continues to do what they are currently doing. I am aware that the whole publication is probably overworked and worn out due to the recent events, but I can assure you that your hard work will pay off as it inspires students from not just our school but from different schools. I hope that The Mayumo will reach more students, teachers, and readers. Surely, your articles can shed light on your readers in these trying times as you are writing more interactive and fascinating articles. Since we’re still in blended learning, I suggest that you focus and emphasize students’ lives, especially how they manage the current situation. In addition, advice for self-improvement would also be an interesting topic to read. As we all know, reading may be of great help to get someone to relax and may also be a virus, but in a positive manner as it is a meaningful activity. I propose that you feature students who perform well not only in academics but also in business. Finally, reading about the stories of students who fight to survive in this situation is something that every student may relate to. That would be all. Hopefully, this letter may be a help for the publication. Sincerely, Rolibert S. Bagui, Grade 11 STEM - Andromeda
JUNIOR STAFF MEMBERS
Airish Joy R. Gamboa Alberto D. Suarez Alex Andrei S. Quevas Aljustine Raine G. Taluban Angelo Jr. G. Santos Audrick Thomas V. Jao Ava Louise F. Toledo Carmel Therese M. Manongsong Charles Asher M. Mariano Chrissielyn Jercille C. Cruz Clarize Mae S. Sarmiento Cristine P. Silva Czar Alexander DC. Ballo Geody C. Pangilinan Janelle S. Garcia Jeanne Raine P. Jose Kate Tiffany S. Del Rosario Kylie Nicole V. Labarro Mikhaela C. Manuson Pam Audrey S. Tamio Randall Josef T. Santos Adviser
Allan Jason P. Sarmiento Assistant Advisers
Maria Cecilia T. Manio Joanna Mariel C. Villamor, PhD. Head teacher VI English department
Nilda G. Milan
Dear Rolibert:
Assistant principal ii operations and learner support
This issue of the Mayumo will serve as a vessel of news and information and shed light on problems that significantly affect our community and country. As we transition into a new era, where shields needed to protect oneself become irrelevant, we offer you tales of perseverance and determination to serve as the light needed to reach the end of this grim tunnel. Sincerely, The Mayumo
Joselito G. Milan, PhD.
JHS assistant principal ii academics
Brenda ‘Lea A. Caranto, PhD. SHS assistant principal ii academics
Cherilyn R. Goyena, PhD. Principal iv
Marciano V. Cruz, Jr.
editorial
The Mayumo
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ABOUT FACE
he new blended mode of learning of the country’s education system brought about by the seemingly endless health scare continues to be a challenge for most students and teachers. Many parents raise concerns about their children getting too dependent on gadgets, while many families are still struggling to get even low-end phones or computers for their kids and allocate spending for mobile loads in their already tight budget. Many parents heaved a sigh of relief when news broke about the possible comeback of faceto-face classes in places in the country where COVID cases are low. Bulacan was still on Alert Level 2 when the project was first implemented in November; hence, none of the schools in the province qualified for it. As per Mayor Roderick Tiongson in an interview conducted in November, he related that there are still no plans of implementing face-toface classes in San Miguel, Bulacan. He said that it would be too risky since those who would be part of the project, starting from grades 1 to 3 kids, have yet to wait for an approved vaccine for their age bracket. Regarding plans, Mayor Tiongson said that he needs to confer it with the local school heads and the Department of Education.
The national government implemented the project when the COVID cases in the country were starting to drop dramatically. This resulted from the country getting access to more vaccines, specifically the brands with higher efficacy rates, and most importantly, more people getting the jabs.
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What the country needs badly is to fix the system and put the right people in the reigns who would prioritize the Filipinos and not only a chosen few.
The Philippines was the last to bring back face-to-face classes in the world. While other countries started learning to live their lives as if COVID is here to stay, the Philippines struggled with the longest lockdowns imposed and the in-
efficiency of those tasked to rule the land. Now, this. While it’s a welcome idea to start face-to-face classes to bring back some levels of normalcy into the students’ lives, the big question remains – did the plan go through proper planning, and will it get sufficient funding from the government that has managed to drown the country in a whopping 11.9 trillion pesos debt and counting? Face-to-face classes would only be practical if the government could ensure the safety of all those who would go back to the academe, including their families. While the burden must not be shouldered by the government alone, they are responsible for creating laws and ensuring they are implemented and monitored. With the discovery of a new COVID variant amidst the Philippines still struggling to pick up the broken pieces of its already unrecognizable past, it is possible that even the implementation of face-to-face classes would again be stopped. What the country needs badly is to fix the system and put the right people in the reigns who would prioritize the Filipinos and not only a chosen few. Only then could the country hope for the safe and effective implementation of face-to-face classes even when COVID persists in staying.
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NEws
The Mayumo In the many years of this term that have passed, another beginning for the nation to thrive is preparing to arrive. With different advocacy and platforms offered to the land, a new set of names is introduced to the public as the day of the most awaited event slowly approaches the scene. A few months are left before the commencement of the 2022 elections and the start of a new presidential reign. Will 2022 be the continuation of disappointments or be the year of rehabilitation and progress? Can the Filipinos bring their hopes up again as they anticipate the brightest envision for the country? Has the moment come for the Philippines to see a hint of light amid the darkest days of these trying times? Know the presidential bets of our fellow SMNHSians and hear their reasons for why they prefer these candidates.
Graphics: Jenina Alvañiz, Butch Miguel Bautista, Mikhaela Manuson
Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
Leni Robredo
I will vote for BBM so that he can continue his father’s legacy, as well as PRRD’s projects through his running mate Sara Duterte. The Marcoses are brilliant people, it runs in their blood, it’s just that some have slandered them. I can also feel his sincerity and he has something to prove, prove to the Philippines that his family are not thieves. Also, he has better plans compared to other candidates. Mildred Reyes Culala - SMNHS Alumnus Isko Moreno
What piqued my interest was when he was able to successfully manage a clean-up drive in Manila. I could never envision Manila, one of the country’s most polluted cities, being as clean as it is now. He also wants to preserve the area’s heritage and has been able to alleviate traffic congestion. He did not take use of the pandemic for personal benefit, unlike other politicians. In just 52 days, he was ready to initiate construction on a hospital for Covid-19 patients. It is evident that he has a clear aim and is dedicated to achieving it. If he were elected President, I believe he would have more power to put his ideals into action, comparable to his recent accomplishments, and would be able to make the country more globally competitive.
I am supporting VP Leni Robredo because out of all the aspiring Presidents of the Philippines, I believe that she is the most qualified in terms of educational background and experience. She is smart and sympathetic. She has a clean track record, a long list of accomplishments and with true intentions for the country. Despite being oppressed by the current administration for being a part of the opposition, she has shown that she’s still capable of helping other people and pursuing her goals. She has proven herself as an efficient leader even before being elected as the Vice President of the Philippines. She is like a ‘silent operator’ who’s continuously doing her job well without trying to brag about it in mass media/social media. The numerous awards that she received is proof of how good she is. - SMNHS Senior High School Teacher Manny Pacquiao
For me, Manny Pacquiao is the best presidential bet for the 2022 elections because I can see that he is willing to do everything for our nation. I witnessed how determined he is to help other people, especially since he came from a poor life when he was young.
Miguel Luis Torres - Grade 12 STEM - Newton
Ninnia Marie Mendoza - Grade 7 - Iodine
Ping Lacson
Maganda at malinaw ang mga plataporma ni Ping. At dahil dati syang pulis, mas naiintindihan nya ang sistema at mas maaksyunan niya ang problema natin sa kriminalidad. Gilbert dela Paz - SMNHS Alumnus
NEWS
The Mayumo
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Survey: Parents say yes to face-to-face class Janelle Garcia & Angelo Jr. Santos
Do you approve of face-to-face classes in SMNHS?
80% YES
20% NO
The Mayumo launched an online survey on November 19, 2021, for the parents of 25 selected students from the school to assess their perspectives and whether they favor returning to face-to-face classes at San Miguel National High School (SMNHS). Out of the 25 respondents, 80 percent of the parents favored returning to face-to-face classes, while approximately 20 percent were opposed because they were concerned about their children’s health and safety. One of those who favored having face-to-face classes again was Marietta B. Santos, a mother of a grade 10 student. She said, “As a parent, I approve of the faceto-face classes. It is more convenient. Teachers can monitor the children more, which makes teaching more effective. Even though doubts are affecting
my decision, I still agree on having traditional classes. We need a proper system and cooperation to ensure our children’s safety and provide what’s best for them.” Meanwhile, a public school teacher and a parent of three high school students, opposed face-toface classes citing that, “For me, I disagree about having face-to-face classes in our school because we are not ready yet as well as the facilities in the campus.” On September 21, 2021, President Rodrigo Duterte approved the launch of pilot face-to-face classes at 120 public and private schools by the Department of Education (DEPED) on November 15, 2021. In the meantime, the remaining schools in the Philippines will continue to use blended distance learning.
Chief Supervisor delves into pilot in-person classes Jeremias Pablo Mr. Greg Quinto, Chief Education Supervisor of the Schools Division Office of Bulacan discussed the pilot limited face-to-face classes last November 15, 2021. Nearly 100 public schools in areas deemed as low-risk for COVID-19 participated in the pilot implementation, and none came from Bulacan. Based on the Implementation Guidelines on the Regional-Wide School Safety Assessment, these schools were selected in preparation for Future Expansion of Face-to-Face Classes. Among these 100 schools that are in areas deemed as low-risk for COVID-19, none came from Bulacan which is under Alert Level 2 in November 2021. The preparation for the pilot testing of face-to-face classes started on October 18 per DepEd Memo No. 071, s. 202 with the coordination of DepEd Central Office and Department of Health (DOH). Quinto stated that the selection process for the pilot implementation is properly assessed and analyzed with the coordination of all the stakeholders. “Sa makatuwid, hindi iisang tao, adminsitrador o samahan ang makapagtatakda o makapagpapasya sa pagkakaroon ng face-toface classes.” Moreover, the interview that the selection
Resbakuna sa kabataan: San Miguel Local Government Units continue the large-scale vaccination of youths.
Photo courtesy: Reporma at Tagumpay Bayan ng San Miguel
process for the pilot implementation is properly assessed and analyzed with the coordination of all the stakeholders. No COVID-19 infection was reported during the 1st week of pilot face-to-face classes, Quinto added that there is a contingency plan in case of a COVID-19 infection. Regular checkups will be held every two weeks to detect indicators
and prevent further transmission. “It is true that DepEd budget concern is one of the factors that will affect face-to-face learning. But let us be reminded of being proactive and being resourceful. The only key is transparency and the values of each of us. Let us hope and pray too that COVID-19 will be eradicated soon,” Quinto emphasized.
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NEws
The Mayumo
Sir Mar: SMNHS performs well amidst pandemic Cristine Silva Despite the challenges of the current pandemic, San Miguel National High School maintains its stature as a well-performing institution. In an online interview, Marciano V. Cruz, Jr said that through the collaborative efforts of administrators, internal and external stakeholders, SMNHS is outstanding in terms of accessibility of materials for blended learning, the safety of school for teachers and other personnel, and capacity of teachers to conduct online and remote teaching which leads to effective student learning. The school principal also mentioned that in spite of the present setup, the school was able to reap successes from various online contests from district to national level. He then added, “Teachers are empowered with strategies that make engagement
activities fruitful. With this, we can assure the parents that in our school, learning does continue.” Meanwhile, when asked about his plans if the new normal continues, Cruz said that SMNHS is deeply committed to empowering teachers in the design of more effective synchronous and asynchronous activities that are meaningful and relevant to the learners. “These prepare them with global skills, and they be taught about the invaluable skills of flexibility, adaptability, and empathy. As such, teachers must be equipped with a solid understanding of 21st-century pedagogy”, he added. More so, he encouraged the SMNHS community to be flexible in order to accept and flourish in an uncertain future and wear the most potent armors of courage and faith in our quest for globalized quality education.
OICS No More
Master teachers top HT rankings, vow good leadership
Gonzales
Rinzen Gonzales & Ma. Amberainne Mendoza After going through tough evaluations, two SMNHS teachers assumed Head Teacher VI positions. Nilda Milan and Esperanza Gonzales, the officers-in-charge of English and MAPEH departments, respectively shared common experiences during and after the division ranking for HT last January 18. In an online interview, Milan shared that it was a humbling experience to have gone through the tough ranking process and it made her more accomplished in the sense that her hard work had paid off, and she was finally granted the opportunity to lead. She also mentioned that in her term, she would unveil the potentials of teachers for them to have self-esteem
and realize that they can also become future leaders. “I will inspire teachers and support them with significant projects and endeavors that benefit learners for them to become productive citizens of our nation,” she added. Meanwhile, Gonzales said that despite the pressure she felt, she realized that there is always a reward for hard work. She added, “Until now hindi pa rin nagsisink-in sa akin na head teacher na ako. Masaya dahil naging worth it lahat ng preparations and naniniwala talaga ako in God’s perfect time.” Asked about her plans as an official department head, she said that she shall continue the good leadership of his predecessors and serve the school with all sincerity and integrity.
Milan
NEWS
The Mayumo
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AMIDST TRYING TIMES
The Mayumo conducts webinar series on campus journ Andrea Mangalus By organizing a webinar workshops series with the theme, “PENdemic: Unleashing the Might of Pen Amidst the Trying Times” on September 17 to October 4, 2021, The Mayumo fueled the excellence of campus journalists despite the burden of the pandemic. The webinar-workshop series presented seminars on journalism. In line with this, the publication featured speakers of different expertises like Mr. Patrick Josh Atayde, former editor-in-chief of The Mayumo and a layout artist of the official publication of University of the Philippines Los Baños, and Sir Allan Jayson P. Sarmiento adviser of The Mayumo, who both warmed up the opening week of the series with their talk. The publication progressed to the second week with the knowledge of Ma’am Maancelene Carag, a school paper adviser from Cauayan City, Isabela, Ms. Micah Seiri Maur, editor-in-chief of a school publication, and Ma’am Lennie Vi Libunao, a The Mayumo alumna and an SMNHS teacher. Furthermore, Ms. Edlyn Baui, an outstanding school paper adviser from Regional Science High School for Region 2 in Isabela, and Mr. Adonis Villanueva, the school paper adviser of The Silver Torch of Carlos F. Gonzales led the student-journalists in the third session of the se-
ries.
Finally, the last installment of the series had been executed with the presentations by Sir Romel Roque, Ph.D., and Ma’am Aileen Victoria. As the journalism workshops end, every
webinar session was a success as the skills of the student-journalists developed with every output they submitted. In an interview with Janelle S. Garcia, a new member of the publication, she
shared how her first webinar-workshop experience was the most eye-opening experience for her as a student interested in the field of journalism. “I enjoyed it because the lecturers were able to make it interactive, fun, and informative,” Garcia stated. She also revealed that despite having a background in writing since elementary, there is more to journalism that she didn’t know about and thankfully, The Mayumo helped her learn those things. According to Garcia, the webinar-workshop series was very beneficial for her as she developed her skills in writing and discovered new talents like photography. She also voiced that “Education never stops, which is why webinars like these are useful because learning does not take place in a closed box. There will always be opportunities to grow.” Moreover, she expressed that the most important lesson she gained from the workshop is to write, not with the intent to impress, but with the resolve to inform and elevate community perspectives. No boulder of distance and pandemic can stop The Mayumo to trek against the rough times of the pandemic. It is rather a stepping-stone that helps them in upholding the purpose of campus journalism of standing by the truth amidst the trying times.
New municipal hall prospect design shared Bea Denise Villanueva San Miguel once again proves that even the pandemic couldn’t stop them from serving their people. Mayor Roderick Tiongson shared the new multi-purpose municipal hall’s prospective design that will be built in Old Sta. Rita stunned San Migueleños last November 25 via Facebook. It is a two-storey building that includes the offices of the different departments of the Local Government Unit (LGU) and aims to give convenience to locals when getting important documents such as business permits, birth certificates, etc. The said proposal implies that even though coronavirus takes a huge strike on us, we are still capable of having a project that will be beneficial to all.
Photo courtesy: Mayor Roderick DG Tiongson
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Opinion
The Mayumo
Not a Burden or Easing Burdens
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Learning requires a healthy and safe environment, meaning just listening and attending classes is not enough.
oo much academic stress or pressure. This has been a prevailing issue among students, especially during this pandemic. Many have raised their concerns through social media and rallies. This is a clear sign of how the pandemic and the “new normal” education are being regarded. It was a call to realize that students have issues that they face daily — personal, familial, or financial, and that excludes the load and stress of their schoolwork. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), mental health came to the limelight as suicide incidents rose by 25.7% in 2020, making it the 27th leading cause of death according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The isolation brought by online classes is foreign to the students and teachers. Learning requires a healthy and safe environment, meaning just listening and attending classes is not enough. Psy-
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chosocial problems arise as the lonely feeling slowly devour the students’ mind and emotions. As a way to solve this, the Department of Education launched the mental health helpline system in November 2021 as “promotion and protection of the mental health and general welfare of our personnel and learners.” The “new normal” education, no matter what it may be called, has something in common, which is the distance between students and their teachers. This distance not only delays communication but also slows down progress in learning. The problem is not delivering education; it lies in whether the students can access it. Not every student has gadgets that they can use to attend classes, some may not even have electricity in their house to open and watch the education channel, and some may choose to use
Primed Jeremias Pablo their P200 internet load to fill their stomachs. This financial burden weighs the students’ families down. Education is not a privilege but a right; thus, the constraints make it seem “privileged” in life have the means to access it. That is why communication is necessary among the teachers, students, school and family. The students’ voices must be heard, and the worries of their guardians must be answered. Consideration must exist between the teachers and the students because the life they live after a class cannot be reflected through the opened camera in an online class. The succession of a health break in this dire situation is a positive step towards realizing that education is not a burden but a right one must uphold—that the push for ease is a call to answer those whose circumstances need to be appeased.
Autolike, Phishing, Smishing - What Have We Gotten Into? ou can make up to 50,000 monthly using your mobile phone!” Have you ever received text messages like this one asking you to click a link because it could change your life? It’s a blatant fraud that has long been happening but has worsened since the pandemic struck. Imaginary Job Davy Jean Osias, a single mom who only wanted to make ends meet, shared her sad story on TV Patrol. She received a job offer via SMS to become a shopping assistant and get a commission for each successful transaction. The person she was in contact with (the scammer) would send her photos of the supposed order from a customer that she had to pay in advance (to the scammer). After the initial transaction, she got the promised commission, which prompted her to continue with it until she had transferred a total of P99,700 and realized that she was scammed. Smishing, Phishing... The National Privacy Commission (NPC) defines smishing as a type of phishing. It happens when you click on the link given by a scammer via SMS. You will be directed to a website that looks legitimate but once there, the scammers could easily get your personal data and
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use it in committing fraud. According to NPC commissioner Raymund Liboro in his interview with Teleradyo’s On The Spot, a global syndicate may organize these phishing scams.
Spit It Out Ma. Amberainne Mendoza
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Likes cannot judge what’s good or bad; they only reflect whose students have the most number of friends and relatives. Autolikes This issue is closer to home. It was brought to my attention by several parents since they
knew me as someone who would often ask for their help in liking my contest entries. They were asking if I ever used an auto-like app. The parents’ suspicions arose from an SMNHS club contest that would give the winning award to the entries that got the most likes on FB. They were surprised when some of the entries got around 3 or 5k likes in a matter of days when they could barely reach 500 even after asking all they know to like their children’s posts. So they stalked the profiles of the likers and found out that most of them turned out to be foreigners who would not even understand the content of the contest entries. It remains an allegation, though, since no one has verified if there is indeed an autolike app. But I understand these parents’ agonies. Judging contest entries or giving grades to student projects by the number of likes they get on FB is unfair and should be stopped. Likes cannot judge what’s good or bad; they only reflect whose students have the most friends and relatives. Auto likes, phishing, smishing… what’s next? Times are hard, but we have to remember that these would only get harder if we don’t make intelligent decisions in our dealings, especially with random numbers and unknown senders.
Opinion
The Mayumo
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Wish Granted: The Beginning of My Journey believe that education does not stop in the four corners of our classrooms. The pandemic shouldn’t hinder us from dreaming and pursuing our ambitions. Instead of putting out the fire within me, the pandemic fueled me to be the best that I could be. So when the school publication, The Mayumo, opened its doors for aspiring writers and cartoonists, I grabbed the opportunity and took the chance. It was a wish I had, but I was torn between happiness and doubt upon my acceptance in the publication on September 5. One of the staff asked me if I was committed to the responsibility of becoming one of The Mayumo writers. Was I? I spent a day thinking if I could take on the responsibility while ensuring that I didn’t neglect my modules and other classroom-related tasks. I braved my worries and chose to take this opportunity. I know in my heart that it will hone my skills and prepare me for whatever life battles I may face in the not-so-distant future. A week after I got accepted, all The Mayumo staff participated in a series of webinars, each session lasting as early as 9 AM until 3 PM.
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With the help of distinguished speakers, I gained knowledge in different areas and categories of journalism. Both writers and cartoonists were made to write and were also tasked to draw.
Perseverance Pam Audrey Tamio
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I believe in myself - that - that I can overcome all hurdles and nothing can stop me as I breeze through it all.
Fake News Pandemic (+A Campaign for Fact-Checking)
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With our era most vulnerable to being victims, isn’t today the right time to act?
acts vs. Zombies What if I tell you that zombies have been living in our society… They have continuously hibernated deep behind the darkness, wherein even a ray of sun could not sight them while synthesizing the plans of distractions and destructions, agendas that would bend the truth. There in the darkness, they hunger for our brains - over 80 million of us who have access to the internet, as reported by Statista in the year 2020. As seen in our apocalyptic epoch, information has been a noble currency. And now, with social media, the power to either make or break the truth is at our fingertips, especially that the social-media dependent in the country rose to 47%, mainly from Facebook as reported by Statista, a global research institute—making this a primary prey for the zombies longing for brains. IN THE FIELD OF LANDMINES Their cult has grown bigger, now an epidemic since the day we have been isolated from
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the outside world. When we entered the vast and risky world of the internet, this is when zombies began to juggle the flow of information, encrypting social media with lies after lies. Darkness somewhat does fade as per the report of the Philippine Daily Inquirer last April 2020, the Philippine National Police have arrested 47 people for allegedly spreading fake news about COVID-19 on social media. Fake news and disinformation are the filling they spread throughout the vulnerable bread: the “online world.” ABSOLUTE CURE For so long, we have been battling against the zombies who bend the truth, but now, we have established an antidote that would strip the spreading lies up to their shameful skeletons, unveiling how brazen those are zombies are: fact-checking. Now that meetings and conferences go online, webinars for fact-checking have sprouted persistently spearheaded by various universities and NGOs. These relevant initiatives somewhat enact the words of George
The workshops helped me realize my shortcomings as a writer discover my strengths and the areas where I could grow and learn from my fellow writers’ works. A paradigm shift has taken place, and the past month has been a thrilling ride as I watch, listen, and learn. The Mayumo continues to hone my writing skills, but it doesn’t stop there. Being part of the publication also helped in shaping my personality and how I make my decisions and choose my priorities. As expected, my schedule became more hectic after becoming part of The Mayumo team. But challenge accepted, for I know that every hardship is a chance to grow. Thus, to surpass all obstacles, I must keep up with the pace and avoid being idle when I have tasks to complete. I am thankful to be aboard The Mayumo’s wagon. While it may not always sail smoothly, it is a journey I am willing to take to reach whatever destination God has for me. I still believe in the higher being, the institution, and the people constantly telling me to go on. But most importantly, I believe in myself – that I can overcome all hurdles and nothing can stop me as I breeze through it all.
Written Psyche Dann Emanuel M. Felipe Bernard Shaw, an Irish playwright, “Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.” There is this virus that no vaccine can ever cure, even the world’s most outstanding scientists. For it is us, the ones who occupy the society, who hold the responsibility of putting an end to it. Not vaccines but facts Not scientists but awakening Not ignorance but awareness Again, I am telling you, zombies have been living in our society. All this time since the very birth of truth, risen the liars, and truth-benders, the zombies that target to revise our history and reality, the ones who fear truth as much as vampires loathe the rays of the sun. With our era most vulnerable to being victims, isn’t today the right time to act? Facts are what make our reality. So what do we do when they are falsified? WE. FACT. CHECK.
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Battle Cr
In a battlefield where the future remains bleak and where it is easier to give up than keep on bloodbath brought upon by a life-threatening pandemic, where Shouting. Figh
The Creed ofAndrea theMangalus Blooming Youth
ike tiny seeds tossed and scattered in a barren and deserted land, living amidst the pandemic has turned into a survival game for the youth. Anyone can testify how every aspect of their being was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Everyone has been physically, emotionally, and mentally drained for two years. Perhaps, the only aspect that remains brimming full is the spiritual aspect of oneself. But for how long? King James Saycon, a Grade 11 student from San Miguel National High School (SMNHS) and a Born Again Christian from the Church on the Rock (COTR) Tibagan, shared how the pandemic strengthened his faith. He had been under the strains, confined with nothing but the horrors of the uncertainties. But despite that, he continues to get through it all by keeping his beliefs and worshiping the Lord. As a member of the music ministry of the COTR Tibagan, Saycon uses his talent in making great music by playing the rhythm to serve
his God. Prince Lhynbert Ikar Ramos, also a student from SMNHS and a Christian from Christ Commission Fellowship member, expressed that “Sa pamamagitan ng pandemya, mas natutunan kong lumapit sa Diyos. Mas napagtuunan ko rin ng oras ang mga gawaing pang-ispiritwal.” Meanwhile, Francis David Pangilinan, an 11th grader from SMNHS and a Roman Catholic from the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of San Miguel Archangel, revealed that the uncertainty he encountered gave rise to his stronger strength faith. Instead of getting beaten by anxiety, he sought God’s guidance and was thankful that nothing terrible had happened to his loved ones up to now. Life is hard, especially when it is too tempting to lose heart and stop believing that there is a higher being. “Let us dwell, spare time, and immerse ourselves in His words,” Saycon advised his fellow youth who have been finding it hard to keep the faith.
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Perhaps, the only aspect that remains brimming full is the spiritual aspect of oneself. “The Lord will never neglect us. Despite the struggles, He has a better plan for everyone,” said Ramos. “We should never blame the Lord for the obstacles we encounter for those problems are like cuts in our stems, painful but necessary for growth,” Pangilinan stated. Like tiny seeds tossed and scattered in a barren and deserted land, living amidst the pandemic has turned into a game of survival for the youth. However, regardless of their religion, it’s the strength of their faith that awakens them in the middle of the drought.
Axie made
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he perfect facade of our world was torn down, most imperfectly, after the COVID-19 pandemic struck. A huge percentage of the population was already suffering due to low financial stability. But it was at this time that Axie Infinity emerged, from the tiny cracks of our run-down world to drizzle light upon our wretched hearts. Axie Infinity is a pokemon-based game where you can earn money just by playing it. The user can get SLP or Smooth Love Potions which you can sell as cryptocurrency. However, beyond the gaming jargon, money and time invested in the venture raise young minds who develop maturity as they experience the ups and downs of the process. Meet CJ. Carl Joseph Delos Reyes is a former SMNHS student, now a grade 11 senior high school student enrolled in the University of Santo Tomas. His forGraphics: Charles Asher Mariano
Kylie Nicole Labarro and
mer classmates describe him as a happy-go-lucky guy. He was never the person who would lead or take matters seriously unless prodded upon. CJ is currently managing Axie players built from his investments. Growing up with a businessman father and a mother who is also pursuing a venture she’s passionate about, CJ’s parents wanted him to learn things inIt felt too fru dependently. So, despite lose your h being hesitant, they let money, and him invest in Axie Infinity choice but to when he showed them how dedicated he is to do level it. And he did not disappoint. Like in any money-making scheme, one has to invest money and time to learn more about the game and get more earnings in the process. CJ has
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ry of Hope
fighting, comes a loud roar from warriors championing life despite the grim - a battle cry. In a e the deafening noises of despair fill the air, you will hear them. hting. Thriving.
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Every cough, every cold, everything that looks like a symptom, makes her scared.
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he monster under the bed scares many children. It would make weird noises in the middle of the night, and kids would run in fear for their parents. A decade later, they outgrew it. The monster under the bed is just a fantasy—a product of a child’s imagination. They will forget about it. The monster outside the walls of houses is feared but not by everyone. They heard the noises of a cough but dismissed it. They’re just like the parents who would humor their child in checking the underside of a bed? Only now, they would come face to face
featu
In the mind, still it lingers Jed Rogem Santos
with an invisible monster. Archway Matthew Santos’ family felt their home as a boundary between life and death. An archway in which either side will lead to different places. Only not yet were they to move. It was like they were suspended in time, heavenly bodies in a fight against a monster. The end is the verdict for their life. Matthew is a student at San Miguel National Highschool. His whole family had the infection the second week of their mother’s quarantine. Then, by the end of September, his surrounding relatives became part of the fight. An uncle died, leaving a six-year-old child. It was traumatic, Matthew said. Unforgettable. Well, no one could forget a near-death experience-indeed, not an experience with death. Breathless Ma’am Ayie Villamor said she felt the icy touch of Death. Every cough, every cold, everything that looks like a symptom makes her scared. She’s doing every single measure she knows. Death’s breathtaking hand... better to be
accused of overacting than ever to touch it again. It almost devoured her. It already had her sisterin-law resting. Ma’am Ayie has two children - one so new to the world that she feared never being a part of her child’s future. Today, living and cured, the experience is still in the back of her mind. She calls herself “praning” but she knows the way of safety and takes it everyday. “Kaya sa mga di pa nagpapabakuna, sana magpabakuna na din sila para may panglaban sila sa virus at makaiwas din silang makahawa...” The monster under the bed scares many children. It would make weird noises in the middle of the night, and kids would run in fear for their parents. A decade later, they still fear it. The monster under the bed is traumatic for some. A product of a child’s imagination grew into a nightmare that haunts day and night. They will never be left alone by it. Only now, they would come face to face with an invisible monster. But they’re prepared. Their minds, too.
it happen
Kate Tiffany Del Rosario
experienced the dark side of Axie – it is vulnerable and prone to hacking, which he experienced firsthand. It felt too frustrating to lose your hard-earned money, and he had no choice but to go back to level one. However, he also emphasized how all those things helped him become a better person. Mrs. Anne Delos Reyes, CJ’s mom, enthused of the hacking inustrating to cident, “It motivated him hard-earned to work even harder.” d he had no Somehow, it made o go back to us wonder, is CJ still the same guy his classmates one. knew him to be in junior high? Amber, his classmate from grades 7 to 10, shared that CJ remains the humble person he has always been despite not seeing one another. He’s only one “chat” away
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whenever you need him. While Axie might just be a game for others, it is an investment for CJ. And once you invest in something, you must take responsibility for it. He learned how to be a responsible and patient leader when managing his scholars/players. He also learned how to multitask and developed the compassion to help others. A brief chat with other Axie gamers from SMNHS proved that the game could be life and character-changing. Pio Amiel Tamio, 17, one of CJ’s scholars, and Alexandra Kyle Nacu, 16, a former gamer who had to stop to focus on her studies, shared how the game contributed to their character development. They agreed that Axie made them more responsible, generous, and open-minded. Who could have guessed how a crypto-currency game can make an adult out of a kid? As these gamers have proven, it is possible. Axie made it happen. Graphics: Charles Asher Mariano
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features
Andrea Mangalus
T
o reach the heights of the sky, one must first acknowledge the coldness of the ground. In the heart of a busy town, a face of a 20year old boy stood prominent against the gray shadows from the tall buildings that race their ways to the clouds. Equipped with his paper and color mix, he stood firm, ready to assemble a tower of his own. The engrossment of making art crept into Darren C. Waminal at the age of 6 while growing up in Sta. Lucia, San Miguel, Bulacan. He often sketched images of cartoon and anime characters like San Goku. Still, his turning point to further delve into Poster Making began when he was in fifth grade as he was presented with an opportunity to take part in the Science and Technology Fair in his school. “It became my stepping-stone to create arts and join art competitions,” he said. Now, a second-year student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Sta. Mesa, Manila, he majors in Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. His training led him to what he considered his greatest achievement to date. He won 2nd place in the 2021 ASEAN Energy Youth Awards-Infographic College Level Category held on September 15, 2021. Aside from being an international competition, it felt proud to represent his school and the country as a whole. However, he did not have it easy. Waminal shared how he didn’t have any idea regarding the contest until his professor sent him the details about how it will go – on the same day of its submission deadline. “I doubted it at first. I didn’t know how to finish it because I also had a class on one of my major subjects the same day,” Waminal stated. Nonetheless, he could submit the entry an hour later than the given deadline. He was the most surprised by the email informing him of his prize. His stake quivered as boulders of plight were thrown at him as an artist. He expressed his dismay at the fact that art creators often experience indirect and direct attacks
from the authorities, “There’s only one thing to say when someone gets angry — my arts were effective and true.” Furthermore, he believes that art is supposed to “comfort the disturbed, and disturb the comfortable.” Through his artwork, Waminal wants to open people’s minds, especially his fellow young people, regarding the steps they can take for the desired change in the next election. “Art for me is like a breath of fresh air, something we can’t imagine living without. I don’t get tired of making art. I view it as an instrument that I can use to express my opinions, emotions, and aspirations,” Waminal shared. In the heart of a busy town, a face of a 20year old boy stood prominent against the gray shadows from the tall buildings that race their ways to the clouds. Equipped with his paper and color mix, he stood firm, ready to assemble a tower of his own. He used all boulders and shards of defiance as a baluster that builds and strengthens his steeple, a tower aiming to reach the heights of the sky and show the world what art is for.
Graphics: Carrie Anne Manlapas
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Furthermore, he believes that art is supposed to ‘comfort the disturbed, and disturb the comfortable.’
Kinse: D
eep in the darkest alley was the 15-year-old me. As I gazed through the sky that emphasizes its dull moonlight, I realized how I would never taste the sweet comfort of a peaceful night. I have become ignorant of my judgment in a tiny four-cornered room that other kids consider their safe space. I would lie down on bed not to sleep but to feed the darkest shade of humanity inside my mind throughout the night. Forbidding myself from feeling any emotion, I lived a life that would make a parent shed tears if it happened to their child. Visited by midnight, I allow my whole body to drown in the sea of life’s darkest reality. I allow the roughest texture of a palm to neglect the innocence of my youth. I would be embraced by a hand filled with traumatic chills that left me to shiver in horror; clinging to my ears were the spoken words of a person I did not personally know. Engraved to my mind were non-existent chains bound to my joints, keeping me from accepting the fate I had chosen for my life. Also, at the age of 15, I found out that I tested positive for HIV. In the burst of temptation to live a life away from poverty, many lives were thrown to suffer. In January 2021, there were 890 confirmed cases of HIV, making it the 1% of 83,755, which is the total diagnosed number of HIV positives since January 1984, according to data from the Department of Health (DOH). This number alone proves that the Philippines has become a country where unsafe sex for our sex workers is rampant. Furthermore, according to the 2009 Modes of Transmission report of the National Epidemiology Center, DOH, the three most atrisk sizes of the population that fuel the HIV epidemic in the Philippines are males who engage in intercourse with males, injecting drug users, and female sex workers. But we cannot also neglect how unsafe teenage sexual intercourses are also a part of this due to the number of teenage pregnancy cases our country has accumulated throughout the years. Not only that, there are already a massive number of confirmed HIV cases; there are also those that would rather keep themselves untested despite the symptoms in fear of suffering
features
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A Window Towards the Life of a person living with hiv
Dann Emanuel Felipe & Vanessa May Flores
Graphics: Mikhaela Manuson
from stigma and discrimination. those who suffer the hell out of stigma and disComing from a disarrayed family, feed- crimination. May we be enlightened through ing my earthly pleasures served me a door as these words of the late Princess Diana of an escape from all the chaos I am in. Without Wales. “HIV does not make people dangerous me knowing the outcome, I have to face the to know, so you can shake their hands and sickness, the stigma that give them a hug: Heaven mortifies me more than knows they need it.” This the ailment itself. As per should be our reality, a the study reported by more embracing, a more avent.org, myths and concerned society, for no Without me knowing misinformation increase one deserves ignorance the stigma and discrimmore so than those batthe denouement, ination surrounding HIV tling HIV-AIDS. I have to face the and AIDS. This is the life of sickness, the stigma This is what Kalel, a 15-year-old deep that mortifies me composes the movie, in the darkest alley of his “Kalel,15”. A life story life, reflecting the lives of than the ailment closest to the reality of HIV-AIDS-infected paitself. living with HIV in our tients. This movie speaks present society. Thinking facts more than you’ll about the symptoms and ever know, making it worthe stigma worsens the fate of being one, lead- thy of spending your time in. It will offer you a ing to various illnesses such as anxiety and de- chance to be in the shoes of those HIV-positive pression, and worst, becoming suicidal. This is citizens. An instrument of awareness everyone more than a work of art, for this is the voice of all must witness.
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14
Science and Technology
The Mayumo
Science News
Anti-vaxx drive, misinformation threaten vaccine rollout in PH Airish Joy Gamboa
After months of quarantine, the Philippines rolled out its COVID-19 vaccination program that will inoculate minors, especially those aged 12-17 years old, to protect against the virus. However, parents have some contradicting opinions about this vaccination program. Some of the parents do not want their children to be vaccinated. They believe that vaccines threaten their children’s lives and may directly cause autism, a disability that impairs a child’s communicational and behavioral skills. Some even cited dying as a reason for not getting a vaccine. “Before, I didn’t want to be vaccinated because of news that some people died after being vaccinated,” said Kathryn Marcos, a 31-year old
cashier interviewed by Nikkei Asia. On the contrary, many believe that this vaccination program would help their children boost their immune system against COVID. In June of this year, a survey by Pulse Asia stated that 43% of the respondents show willingness to be vaccinated, while 36% said otherwise. Vaccine hesitancy is fueled by misinformation online. False information spreads faster on social media sites, influencing a parent’s decision. The World Health Organization (WHO) even said that humanity is dealing with an “infodemic” along with the COVID pandemic. According to experts, vaccines are effective against COVID 19, but many people showed their sense of refusal because of misinformation online.
Are You Willing to Get Vaccinted? Pulse Asia Survey
Yes No
Undecided Vaccinated
Opinion
Beautified Danger Along the Shore midst the trying times where people struggle to conquer the unseen enemy, the newest attraction arrives for those eyes that cannot see the truth hidden beyond the layers of ground dolomite rocks. Located in the capital city of the Philippines is Manila Bay covered with artificial white sands where people may be allowed to take a dip by the end of the year as claimed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), contrary to what experts say. Fecal Coliform, a bacteria that indicates that the water is contaminated with fecal materials and can cause pathogenic diseases, as explained in an article by DENR is still abundant in the shores of Manila Bay. Roy Cimatu, DENR Secretary said in an interview released by the Philippine News Agency that they are targeting the fecal coliform standard of 100 most probable number per 100 milliliters (100 MPN/ 100 mL) this year. But how can they do this if they are hiding the real problem of pollution, by the so-called beautification with the use of dolomite sands? Moreover, thousands of locals flock to the said attraction after reopening last October 16,
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Bold and Blaring Bea Denise Villanueva
We must not let this cosmetic solution, that tends to cover up the pilling dangers of water pollution, deceive us right under our eyes.
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2021, after a long period of rehabilitation to see the product of the 389-million project without knowing how the artificial sands might affect them. Are these dolomites even safe for human and environmental health? Studies have answered no. Research published by the Institute of Environmental Science & Meteorology (IESM), College of Science, of University of the Philippines Diliman explained that prolonged exposure to dolomite or calcium magnesium carbonate might lead to respiratory problems, especially when breathed in. It can also irritate the eyes and skin. It also threatens marine animals and plants’ lives, for it can potentially bury their habitats, lower the oxygen in the seawater and block their access to sunlight when washed off towards the water. We must not let this cosmetic solution, which tends to cover up the pilling dangers of water pollution, deceive us right under our eyes. We deserve an authentic outcome where we can paddle without worrying about our health. The ground dolomite rocks might be beautiful to the eyes but under these are horrifying and dangerous problems that this government is concealing.
Science and Technology
The Mayumo Opinion
15
Batting an Eye: Realizing the Dangers of Ignorance ven amidst the raging seas, growling storms, and malignant pathogens threatening to bring humanity to ruins, it is our apathy and ignorance that shall lay waste on the human civilization and end it then and there. With our superior intelligence, we feign care that nature and its ecosystem are vital for the survival of humankind. Just recently, more than 6,000 exotic bats were seized from four illegal poachers in Biak-na-Bato National Park in San Miguel, Bulacan. The four illegal poachers were found guilty of killing wrinkle-lipped bats, a vulnerable species, under Administrative Order No. 201909 issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). “Hunting, destroying, disturbing, or mere possessing of any plants or animals or products derived therefrom without the permission from the Protected Area Management Board
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(PAMB) are strictly prohibited inside the protected area,” said Paquito Moreno, Jr., Executive director of DENR-Central Luzon. This is a major concern because animals and their habitats are interconnected in a web that lets the environment endure current problems induced by humankind. These bats scatter seeds throughout the protected area to reforest the grounds of Biak-na-Bato, and killing them to be sold at restaurants would further endanger the endangered within the national park. We must use the gifts bestowed upon man and use our intelligence to our advantage. Spread awareness on the adverse effects of the illegal wildlife trade. Advocate for animal rights while fighting for the conservation of national parks like Biak-na-Bato. Our actions are a double-edged sword. Wielding it may be humanity’s downfall, or it may be the salvation we have been longing for.
Warmer Earth: CO2 Heaters Made by Humans
C
Rinzen Gonzales
Wielding it may be humanity’s downfall, or it may be the salvation we have been longing for.
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The skeptics of climate change are proven wrong and the worsening effects of global warming are indeed caused by our pollution.
Richard Louie Lamorena
limate change skeptics might say that humans are just insignificantly small in the grand scheme of things, but the dreadful consequences of our carbon-polluting civilization are anything but trivial. We are beating our global average temperature like a high score in a video game each year. Storms and floods are picking up the pace worldwide, and the rising sea levels are already knocking on the door of coastal countries. The ongoing pandemic might overshadow these alarming events. Still, the recently awarded Nobel Prize for Physics served as a reminder that there is no time to waste tackling our climate problem. Scientists Syukuro Manabe, Klaus Hasselman, and Giorgio Parisi won the prestigious 2021 Nobel Prize for Physics on October 5 for work that helps understand the complex and seemingly unpredictable systems such as the Earth’s climate. Their contributions served not only as proof to skeptics that the worsening climate is in fact, humanity’s fault, but it also showed the immense changes that we still need to make in addressing the climate problem. “I think it is very urgent that we take real and very strong decisions and we move at a very strong pace.” the 73 year old Giorgio Parisi stated. The Philippines isn’t exactly known for having the cleanest energy sources for the country’s electricity consumption, as more than half of the nation’s power needs come from coal and natural gas, which produces tremendous amounts of carbon dioxide that can heat up the atmosphere due to the Greenhouse Effect. Despite the problems that we are currently facing, hope is still not lost, and we Filipinos can do something to limit our carbon emissions. From
Magnified
simply turning off our appliances when not needed to using solar panels as a clean energy source, every small step that we can take as an individual will surely help in our fight against climate change. The skeptics of climate change are proven wrong and our pollution indeed causes the worsening effects of global warming. And as we move into a postcoronavirus era, we should move forward with a mindset that cares for the environment around us, because we all experienced the first-hand destruction that the pandemic has brought. The vulnerability of our lifestyle will be shaken up again if we don’t act now.
Graphics: Mikhaela Manuson
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science
Treasure Hunt: Advancing to the Next Level
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fter stumbling on forgeries, believing fakes, and being deceived by a hoax, the greatest voyager, under the heat emitted by the sun, had settled on the land and ended the treasure hunt. Finally ending the long wait of finding the hidden treasure; after landing on a vast, empty land, the map derived its purpose. Yes, that is where the gem had been hiding. Or was it really hiding? For it was there all along but did not occur to anyone’s mind. No one suspected that with its partnership with the sun, it would become more powerful compared to any other electricity source. Indeed, a solar power plant was discovered to conquer the heightening demand for electricity. A powerful plant nourished by the sun. Located at Tibagan, San Miguel, Bulacan, the 50-megawatts (MW) solar power plant, PowerSource First Bulacan Solar, Inc. (PFBSI), has officially started providing clean services and renewable energy to the Luzon Grid. The so-called BulacanSol secured a clearance to operate from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on May 12, 2021. It was made possible thru the partnership between MGen Renewable Energy, Inc. (MGreen), which owns 60% of the project, and PowerSource Energy Holdings Corporation, with its 40% shares. Situation in which location matters. The strategic location of the Philippines, being near the equator, where near-constant exposure to sunlight all year long happens, became one of the country’s advantageous factors. It is considered a tropical country where wet and dry seasons are experienced. Apart from harboring high marine biodiversity, the country is wealthy in natural resources on or within its land. But these resources have limitations, especially the non-renewable ones. And what should be the alternative? That is when the solar power plant makes its presence known. Amid the darkness slowly engulfing our non-renewable resources,
Graphics: Charles Asher Mariano
here comes the light that ignited their hope of salvation. Thru the amount of sunlight that strikes the earth’s surface, it could undoubtedly suffice one’s energy consumption. Solar technologies convert sunlight into electrical energy through photovoltaic (PV) panels or mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries or thermal storage. One MERALCO Group sees BulacanSol as one of their starter packs in relying more on renewables, adding the consideration of it having long-term sustainability. “This is a modest step into renewables but a significant one for MERALCO. We look forward to many more investments in renewables, particularly solar, as we attempt to achieve that balance in fuel sourcing, which will ultimately be biased towards renewables,” MERALCO Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said. “In June 2019, MERALCO made the first announcement that it would join the shift to renewable energy and adopt sustainable practices for the One MERALCO Group. And today, we realize the very first renewable power plant – the first of several that One Meralco has lined up for investment and sourcing,” added MERALCO President & CEO Atty. Ray C. Espinosa.
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Amid the darkness slowly engulfing our non-renewable resources, here comes the light that ignited their hope of salvation. According to Dutch firm Solarplaza, Philippine facilities occupy 10 slots in Southeast Asia’s top 25 operational solar power plants, and electricity produced from this technology is expected to triple in four years. BulacanSol is just one of the many solar power plants present in the Philippines. There are various plants in different places, mostly in provinces. Such as the 132.5-MW Cadiz solar power plant in Negros Occidental, 80-MW San Carlos Solar Energy plant, 63-MW Solar Philippines plant in Calatagan, Batangas, 59-MW Toledo project of Citicore Power in Cebu, and 59-MW San Carlos Sun Power plant in Negros Occidental. Progress vs. Nature Although solar power plants saved our non-renewable resources from extreme energy consumption and electricity usage, the community, especially environmentalists,
share their concerns with solar power. A Facebook post by Philippine Daily Inquirer on May 13, 2021, regarding the 50-MW solar power plant in San Miguel, Bulacan, had been flocked by different insights from the people. Some complement the growing demand for renewable energy and provide alternatives for energy production. “Build more of those to reduce dependence on fossil fuels that power our communities. Since solar and wind power can be cheaper to build (and free to source) and definitely cleaner, the Philippines can further reduce its carbon emissions from power generation,” commented one Facebook user. Was it not ideal, or are some just in denial? Others were furious, quoting how organisms present in the land would be harmed or how the purity of the soil would be drained and depleted. Some people lamented the trees that will be cut, resulting in deforestation and animals losing their habitats. Many were worried if it was safe for residential areas or how it’d affect the already high price of electricity bills. Someone even asked if there would be “solar radiation” that might occur, which is unproven. Instead, it is the radiation from communication towers and powerlines that passes nearby communities that we must be worried about. Such negative statements were easily debunked as more were willing to share their knowledge of how beneficial solar power plant is. With their own capability and ability, some residents from San Miguel have used solar panels for their private and commercial uses. Thea Esquerra, a Grade 10 student from SMNHS, cited why they opted to use solar lights at their backyard. “Naisipan naming gumamit ng solar power noong tumataas na ang bill namin sa kuryente lalo na kapag ang aming mga ilaw ay bukas sa labas magdamag.” Mr. Edwin Mendez, from Labne, San Miguel Bulacan shared his experience of using solar panels in his mini grocery business and at his residence. “March 13, 2021, ng magpakabit ako ng solar panels dahil bukod sa konsumo ko sa kuryente sa bahay ay magbubukas ako noon ng Mini Mart. Halos 50% ng aktuwal na konsumo sa kuryente ng aming bahay at Mini Mart ang aming natitipid.” Aside from the savings, he shared that solar power is safe to use and offers long-term benefits. Experts have predicted the Philippines to become one of the world’s first 100 percent renewable energy-powered economies due to the amount of sunlight it gets all year round. Renewable energy development and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions are important goals for many environmental advocates, but so is conservation of habitat and species diversity. These energy sources are not limited, yet they must still be preserved and be handled properly. After all, there goes the greatest voyager, ending the treasure hunt with a victorious grin as he awaits to win another quest. Writer: Portia May Vargas
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science
T
No Way Helpful
he COVID-19 pandemic has been nothing but a saga you’d wish the three generations of Spider-man would put an end to. But they can’t. Why? They are non-existent in this cycle that we call reality. Non-existent like the socalled virus-saving capability of face shields. The Philippine government imposed on the use of face shields since the beginning of the COVID-19 surge until the country experienced a dramatic dip in cases in the latter part of 2021. Highly regarded by the esteemed people in the top posts; considered a treasure by a certain company that was suspected of having amassed millions from lucrative face shield deals with the government. Who are you going to listen to? Those who promise to stop the pandemic by gunning down the virus or those in the field of science who constantly remind people that these plastic shields do not act as shields? They are mere plastics. If you find it hard to breathe while wearing a face mask, the burden becomes double when you put a face shield on top of that. But do we really need to? Can these shields with prices ranging from five to hundreds of pesos depending on their make give us more protection against the invisible enemy? Weaknesses of Face Shields Exposed Fujio Akagi and colleagues from Fukuoka University in Japan did research to test whether or not face shields can indeed shield people from the virus. Their aim was to find out more about the effectiveness of the shields in protecting wearers from other people’s sneezes and coughs. Akagi’s team utilized computer simulations of the airflow surrounding a person wearing a face shield. To achieve this, the wearer of the face shield was exposed to another person’s sneeze at a 1-meter distance. The experiment uncovered how the tornado-like vortex rings made of fluids created through sneezing could reach the top and bottom of the shield. What’s worse is that this tornado of liquids and gases would be bringing with it all the particles from its surrounding that are collected along the way, which unavoidably can include virus particles. If one is unfortunate and the sneeze takes place at the same time the wearer inhales, there could be a much more dreadful effect. The possibly virus-carrying vortex rings formed can reach near the nose of the person wearing the face shield through its gap, making the wearer more vulnerable to the virus than not wearing a shield or wearing a face mask. Face Shields or Face Masks? Wearing face shields alone offers more comfort and space to breathe than wearing face masks or both the shield and mask all day, but less protection from the unseen enemy. Physician-researchers from Wayne State University School of Medicine conducted studies, which have proven that while wearing both a shield and mask provides excellent protection against virus infection, there is only a slight difference Graphics: Jenina Alvañiz
when masks are used alone. The researchers created a simulation of a person infected with the virus and an uninfected person talking from a distance of about 1.15 meters. They used an aerosol-generating device in the experiment, consisting of a fan, an oxygen tank, and a nebulizer. They looked into the agar plates to determine the results by measuring the number of bacterial colonies. Results have shown that bacteria colonies were detected in using face shield alone while the use of face mask exhibited minimal bacterial colonies only. Regarding the effects of the two being worn, one on top of the other, according to Teena Chopra, M.D., M.P.H., “Surprisingly, when assessing the combined protection of surgical mask and face shield, the level of protection was not enhanced in comparison to using surgical masks alone.” Better Ventilation System over the Use of Plastic Barriers Aside from face shields, many establishments and public means of transportation in the country impose on using plastic barriers to stop the spread of the virus. These plastic barriers work similar to face shields - they block the natural airflow that is crucial in lowering the concentrations of contaminants and indoor air pollutants. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggested that increasing ventilation, referring to the amount of air from outside coming indoors, is crucial to lowering the concentrations of pollutants, including viruses, in the indoor air. It is only one step, but still not enough to protect people from the virus. But increasing ventilation can be used along with other practices to provide ample protection to people indoors from getting infected. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the ventilation rate indoors would depend on the number of people present. The reason for this, according to the CDC, is that “Indoor spaces are riskier than outdoor spaces where it might be harder to keep people apart, and there is less ventilation.” In that case, having proper ventilation or introducing outdoor air indoors is a better option than having plastic barriers installed. The air has to flow to prevent the gathering of airborne contaminants. Moreover, proper ventilation can remove virus particles from the air before reaching the surfaces. The same rule applies to face shields. Just a Waste of Money Boom! An expert has spoken, and he did it with a bang. Prof. Jose-Luis Jimenez, considered one of the top American aerosol scientists and a professor at the University of Colorado-Boulder, said to his in-
Writer: Ma. Amberainne Mendoza
terview with Inquirer via email what we knew all along. Face shields, according to Jimenez, are a “waste of money, time and attention [that] create[s] basically plastic pollution.” Filipinos were first made aware of Jimenez after he tweeted about the Philippines being included in the world of shame of countries that mishandle and mismanage the health pandemic. He gave as examples the use of plexiglass barriers in offices and classrooms and plastic motorcycle barriers implemented in the country that could boost the transmission rate of the virus instead of the other way around. Instead of face shields, he called for the government’s consideration in making N95 masks accessible to Filipinos, especially medical frontliners and those who can’t afford them. He added that frontliners should wear goggles instead of plastic shields since they effectively suppress virus-filled air from getting close to their eyes. Science has found that this airborne virus can infect the eyes, making face shields useless since smoke on the aerosols can get under them. Like superheroes who can save the world with their superpowers, that is all there is to it with the promises of what plastic face shields could fulfill. Not. Real.
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Like superheroes who can save the world with their superpowers, that is all there is to it with the promises of what plastic face shields could fulfill. Not. Real.
18 sports
Sports
The Mayumo
news
Athletes, teachers long for normal P.E classes Bea Denise Villanueva & Angelo Jr. Santos In an online interview conducted by The Mayumo, students from San Miguel National High School expressed their grievances about how the coronavirus deprived them of the opportunity to learn and engage in various physical activities. Learners and teachers from different grade levels said that learning and teaching Physical Education is better in face-to-face classes than in an online or modular setup. “For me, face-to-face learning is better, more enjoyable, and more engaging for learning physical education. Because teachers can see if the students are doing the right thing and if they are participating in the given task or topic, It’s also a lot more fun because we can interact with one another, which improves our socialization and mood, “ a Grade 10 student explained. Charlene Fernandez, a Grade 12 learner, also shared her views about how sad it is to do exercises at home and said, “I can’t interact with them [friends] or use the steps or sports that we have learned to either play with it the proper way or in a not-so-safe-yet-fun-way.” And it is not only challenging for the students to adjust to this situation
but also for the teachers. According to Sir Arsenio De Castro Jr., a P.E. instructor for 20 years, the hardships they face in teaching Physical Education in this setup are too many to mention. But despite the difficulties, SMNHSians keep on striving to educate, learn, and encourage themselves to be physically fit amid the trying times where we need a strong and healthy body to win against the virus. “I motivate myself in such a way that, despite the pandemic, my health, fitness, and physical well-being remain as my priority”, Pearl San Antonio, a grade eight student stated. When asked about how he motivates his students to maintain their physical well-being amidst the pandemic, Sir Eric G. Cayetano, teaching Physical Education for 7 years, answered that he gives his students information about the importance of maintaining optimum health and how it prevents illnesses, especially during a pandemic. Nevertheless, students and teachers are looking forward to face-toface classes to attend more interactive and enjoyable P.E. classes and will never stop hoping for a better tomorrow.
In Conquest for Glory espite having given birth to countless sports legends and champions like Efren Bata Reyes, Paeng Nepomuceno, and Hidilyn Diaz, why is it that our country remains an underdog in international sporting competitions? Sports are widely popular in the country, including basketball and volleyball. The recently concluded Tokyo Olympics, where we bagged our first gold with Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting, also brought this sport into the spotlight. It was considered our country’s best Olympic finish since we first joined the competition in 1924. However, the brilliance of being at the top of the podium cannot erase the grim reality one has to face before reaching it. If you can still remember, back in 2019, Diaz received a huge backlash on the internet, mostly coming from President Rodrigo Duterte’s fans, after she asked for sponsorship and financial support for Olympic athletes. Her name was also dragged in the mud after being featured in a matrix that Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador presented. The matrix is a list of individuals vying to remove PRD from power. It is probably one of the countless reasons why being an athlete is hard, especially if you’re a Filipino. Because instead of receiving support
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morally and financially from your country, most of the time, they will be the ones dragging you down. The fact remains that many top athletes like Diaz suffer too due to the insufficient funds coming from the government. Even former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque admitted the government’s inadequacy of giving financial aid to our athletes in a press briefing right after Diaz’s historic win. However, in another sense, no matter what we do, money would never be enough for Philippines sports. Indeed, we should prioritize better budget allocation to sports categories where we have a greater chance of winning. If we want our national teams to succeed, we have to give them our best support—training facilities, equipment, health check-ups, free meals, monthly allowances – you name it. We can’t expect them to win without even exerting an ounce of effort to aid our athletes. Undoubtedly, the path of being an athlete is a treacherous one. However, for those who have devoted their lives to sports, there will be no other glory that is greater than to be our nation’s pride – and to place the Philippine flag on the pedestal.
Tenacious Kate Tiffany Del Rosario
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Because instead of receiving support morally and financially from your country, most of the time, they will be the ones dragging you down.
Sports
The Mayumo sports
editorial
19
Dashing
the course of uncertainties
Graphics: Audrick Thomas Jao
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s the second year of distance learning ambles at present, the San Miguel National High School’s Special Program in Sports was subjected to drastic adjustments, spraining the school’s right foot and slowing down its pace in terms of sports. The current academic setup limits the physical training and application of skills that the SPS students could have undergone, for it is their safety that the teachers prioritize. However, there are unexpected advantages resulting from distance learning. Sir Abelito Alabado, a Grade 10 MAPEH teacher, shared how the lack of physical training provided the teachers and coaches an opportunity to ponder and develop new training strategies and ways to improve the learners’ resourcefulness and adaptiveness, qualities that would be beneficial for the athletes to acquire especially when schools finally reopen. Sir Alabado further related that the SPS Program had been made dynamic despite the challenges of the pandemic. Its activeness was made possible with the cooperation of the SPS teachers, department heads, and advisers. Online promotions from the school’s
official Facebook page and the emergence of some online training venues like Alab Free Online Basketball Camp are crucial steps in encouraging the students. It would be helpful for the aspiring athletes as they got to train themselves before the face-to-face classes finally start and practical considering that these online training camps are free.
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The Covid-19 pandemic may have slowed down the pace of SMNHS in sports, but the fire of their eagerness and passion has only gotten bigger. He also stated that “As opposed to the in-person mode of learning, a greater percentage of the distance learning is affiliated with
sports knowledge than skills.” Nonetheless, with the consent of their parents, the students are ensured that physical training would still be possible through online classes, proof that their passion for sports is extreme enough not to be discouraged by the COVID-19 threats. Furthermore, to sustain the learnings of the student-athletes, they receive learning activity sheets alongside their modules. They also attend skill-based online classes concerning the events they’ve chosen. When asked about his advice to the SPS coaches and teachers so they won’t lose the enthusiasm of teaching despite the tough times, Mr. Alabado answered, “Just make the most out of it. Coaches become resourceful when there are no resources. It’s comparable to a real game. Your team might become the underdog because of different reasons, but a coach must always find a way to give a good fight, and if possible, to win. Never allow the circumstances to put you down. Nobody can prevent us from doing our thing, and that is to teach the students.” The students, on the other hand, should take the situation as an opportunity to develop a better attitude and work ethic to sustain their enthusiasm in learning and training despite the pandemic. “Stepping outside your comfort zone allows you to change, grow, and transform,” he added. The Covid-19 pandemic may have slowed down the pace of SMNHS in sports, but the fire of their eagerness and passion has only gotten bigger. They did not spare a second to be discouraged and used this downtime as a turning point for improvement until such time that the whistle of the school’s comeback would cut through the bleak. By then, the teachers and students pioneering sports would tread the course with confidence, wisdom, and sportsmanship shaped by the pandemic.
The Mayumo
sports A Century Long Hunt for Graphics: Mikhaela Manuson
GOLD Clarize Mae Sarmiento
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features
idilyn Diaz made history for the Philippines when she Obiena, one of the world’s top 5 pole vaulters, has been acbagged our first Olympic gold medal since we first cused by the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association took part back in 1924. She set a new Olympic record (PATAFA) of not paying his Ukrainian coach a total of P4.8 for women’s 55-kg class – a feat that not only lifted the sports, million. The issue opened Pandora’s box of the other probweightlifting, into the limelight but lifted the country as a whole. lems – why is the athlete given other tasks than to train and Just when we needed it the most. excel in his games? Why bring the point out in the open? Isn’t The noises that came after Diaz’s win couldn’t hide the it PATAFA’s job, and not Obiena, to handle money matters in struggles from within. the first place? Due to a lack of governmental If this is the kind of treatment support, Diaz decided to stay in Mathis government has for world-class laysia for about two years to train for and record-breaking athletes, then it is the competition without any distraconly a matter of time before we lose tions. She braved the wrath of those them. More than the in power by posting a plea of support For sure, other countries are from private sponsors in her personal already lined up and waiting for Obifinancial aid, we Instagram account. Criticisms barged ena to change his citizenship. We’ve have to give our her even from people in power who already lost two promising sporting athletes, above all were supposed to back her up for the figures because they have chosen to else, respect. win. represent other countries – Wesley So However, this woman’s courage of chess and Yuka Saso of golf. If Obibrought positive changes, although ena would follow their lead (crossing minor, to the support being received by the athletes training our fingers, he won’t), where would that leave us? for the Olympics. More than the financial aid, we have to give our athletes, The 2020 Summer Games have been fruitful for us. above all else, respect. If we want the future to be bright in Aside from Diaz’s gold, we also have two silver and one bronze Philippine sport, we have to choose the right people who would medallist for boxing, Nesthy Petecio (women’s feather), Carlo turn the power on instead of dimming our athletes’ lights. For Paalam (men’s flyweight), and Eumir Marcial (men’s middle). now, these athletes continue to grapple with the littlest of hope After the triumph came to a controversy that could have that they can see the end of the victory tunnel despite having been prevented by proper communication and governance. EJ their blindfolds on.
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