The Nautilus, Volume 50 Issue 1.

The Nautilus

we dessiminate what is true and right

Validators unveil students’ difficulty in speaking National Language

by aubrey RHOM

Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS) students claimed difficulties in speaking and comprehending the Filipino language during the focus group discussion (FGD) of the field-testing activity of the National Historical Commission of the Philippine (NHCP)Department of Education (DepEd) Patricio Mariano version of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.

“Sometimes we cannot communicate well with the students since they struggle to speak and understand the Filipino language, and they often say terms in Cebuano that we cannot understand as well,” Joselito Asi said in Filipino, Senior Education Program Specialist and validator from the DepEd Central office.

Moreover, 110 out of 160 student- participants admitted that they still prefer communicating in English instead of Filipino.

“To address the problem, students translated terms into English,” one of the validators, Jason Villena, said. “But teachers were there to guide them, so the discussion still went well.”

read more on page 3

PTA to rehabilitate comfort rooms Students urged to be disciplined users

by thea GUIMARY

C omfort rooms in SCNHS-Senior High School and Junior High School needed immediate repairs, but students worsened the issue by putting garbage, tissues, and napkins in toilet bowls.

“There is a need for us to repair and rehabilitate our comfort rooms, it is really one of my current agendas, but regardless, discipline among students (in using CRs) is also a problem,” SPTA President Donnell John B. Contiveros said in an interview.

Contiveros claimed that the Local School Board

“ We cannot communicate well with the students since they struggle to speak and understand the Filipino language

Joselito Asi

Senior Education Program Specialist, Deped Central Office

Concerns rise over gang presence LGU to open DSSCSta Cruz campus in August

by aubrey RHOM | p. 2 by evo SOLAMO

Editors: Hannah Santiseteban & Yancy Mariscal

DepEd DavSur calls to break gender stereotypes

Youth formation enforces SORA

by hannah SANTISTEBAN

D epartment of Education (DepEd), through the Youth Formation of the Division of Davao del Sur, initiated Project Sexual Orientation, Response, and Awareness (SORA) activity last April 29 at Bansalan Sports Complex, reminding students of their sexual orientation, responsibilities, and rights.

“Regardless of your gender, if you are a victim, you are a victim, and you have the right,” the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Bansalan Representative said during the discussion. Meanwhile, 145 identified Teacher-Advisers and Student-Officers across DavSur participated in SORA discussions led by the invited MSWDO speakers and a professor from the University of Mindanao, Bansalan.

“When straight boys, lesbian or gay, are raped, people tend to turn a blind eye to that,” Neil John Audan, Division Youth Formation Coordinator, said as he made the participants actualize the topics from the talk through team-building activities.

“We should break stereotypes because everyone needs equal attention and protection,” he said.

Boosting Sama-Bajau tribe,

SamSarDaCo hailed champion in cultural dance tilt

by yancy MARISCAL

S

amu’t Sari Dance Company (SamSarDaCo) of Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS) emerged as the champion at the Hugyaw Sayaw Championship 2022 Cultural Dance Competition held during the 138th Araw ng Santa Cruz, revitalizing the “Sama-Bajau” tribe.“I have a background in the Sama-Bajau tribe from college, where we also participated in cultural competitions. Sama-Bajau was one of the tribes that we concentrated on, so I am confident that if I bring that tribe, we will have a chance to win as I have more information about them,” John Michael Momo, the SCNHS SPA Coordinator, said in an interview.

Momo aimed for the student participants to excel in their craft and gain valuable experience through the competition that would provide the participants with training and exposure to enhance their skills in the field.

He also expressed his gratitude towards the teachers and stakeholders.

“I am thankful that the teachers and stakeholders in SCNHS are very supportive. I am very much thankful to them for their full support; their help has had a significant impact,” he said.

by

thea GUIMARY

D

”We should take advantage of this rare opportunity and see its importance in protecting our children. This Chikiting Ligtas campaign and its supplemental immunization activities is a comeback from the forgotten immunization due to the pandemic,” Municipal Health Officer Dr. Raygene Manuel stated last May 2 during the opening of the event.

The Supplemental immunization campaign titled ‘Chikiting Ligtas’ started with their symbolic vaccination activity, having selected children from Barangay Zone 3, Santa Cruz Davao del Sur, which happened at Bernadette resto-bar.

Hon. Atty Michel Louise Bajo,

Concerns rise over gang presence

by thea GUIMARY

P

by the numbers

P200,000

for the revitalization of two classroom buildings, aiming to transform them into conducive learning spaces.

“Several students have expressed fear and discomfort in attending school because of the gang’s influence, and this has led to a decline in academic performance and attendance and has raised questions about the school’s ability to provide a safe and healthy learning environment,” Marissa Abangan Matillano, Head Teacher III said in an interview.

According to her, the school administration has responded by increasing security measures, including additional security personnel to ensure a safe learning environment for all the students. “Local Law enforcement has also been alerted to the situation and has promised to work closely with the school to address the issue,” Matillano stated.

Moreover, parents and educators are calling for more proactive measures to protect students from the gang’s influence, including counseling and support services for those affected by bullying and violence.

“Some are also calling for strict disciplinary actions, such as suspensions or expulsions for students involved with the gang,” Marissa said.

She added that 60-70 estimated students are involved in a gang, but they are making sure that these students cannot cause harm to students who are learning peacefully.

“The presence of a gang has serious implications for the safety and well-being of students; that is why we teachers and administrators here in SCNHS are taking proactive measures to secure a protected learning environment,” Matillano said.

Furthermore, she stated that the parents and educators must remain alert and report any suspicious or concerning activity to school administrators.

Sangguniang Bayan on Health, supported the event and was assisted by Santa Cruz National High School Barkada Kontra Droga (BKD) organization.

Moreover, to boost the Chikiting Ligtas campaign, they had a ‘Bakuna Wednesday” jingle-making contest, in which Federico Yap NHS, SCNHS, and Manuel Francisco Ramos NHS participated.

Local Government Units (LGUs) under DOH also enforced routine immunization to local government employees with eligible children around 0-59 months or under five years old to join the activity.

MADAC grants 30M fund to youth orgs

epartment of Health (DOH), with the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) through Santa Cruz Municipal Health Office (MHO), ensured free immunization nationwide, vaccinating children against rubella, polio, and measles.by aubrey RHOM

S

“That is just a small amount, given the issues they (youth) face today, they deserve better recognition and support from the council and should also use LSC special education 30 million-plus budget,” Atty. Michel Orpilla, MADAC Focal Person, said in an interview.

Barkada Kontra Droga (BKD) of North and South districts received 200k assistance, including SCNHS BKD and SC Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terrorismo (KKDAT) with 300k, after consecutively attending the quarterly MADAC meeting.

P150,000

for the repair and improvement of comfort rooms and septic tanks

arents, students, teachers, staff, and school administrators expressed concern over the presence of a gang, which has led to increased violence and bullying that creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation that can harm students’ academic performance and mental health.‘To a more conducive, comfy learning’

LSB aims to renovate facilities, classrooms

by aubrey RHOM

T

of Santa Cruz has unveiled a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate the learning environment at Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS), focusing on student comfort and welfare.

In a recent interview, Mylene Famulagan, Administrative Officer I, shed light on the planned repairs and renovations. She revealed that the LSB’s plan entails the restoration of six classrooms across two buildings.

“The repair includes three classrooms in the Marcos-type building, and another three at the Saranggani building, making it a total of six,” she stated.

According to Famulagan, the LSB plans to allocate around P200,000

he Local School Board (LSB)to revitalize two classroom buildings, transforming them into conducive learning spaces, addressing damages, and providing students with a comfortable and engaging learning environment.

Furthermore, she emphasized that LSB’s commitment to students well-being by focusing on the refurbishment of comfort rooms and septic tanks with a budget of P150,000, aiming to improve the condition of the comfort rooms and allow students to utilize the reconditioned facilities without any inconvenience.

The LSB’s initiative to invest in rehabilitating classrooms and repairing comfort rooms at SCNHS reflects its dedication to providing a holistic educational experience that fosters learning, comfort, and overall well-being for the students.

YOs can also request assistance from the Local Youth and Development Sports Program, with 1.9 M funds, to the Local Youth Development Council and Sangguniang Kabataan, Gender and Development Office under the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

“To our young Santa Cruzians, you are not alone, always seek advice and support,” Orpilla advised.

The LSB’s rehabilitation plan will encompass the restoration of current damages and the implementation of measures to improve the school’s infrastructure, aiming to provide students with contemporary and efficient facilities that cater to their educational requirements.

“We are excited about the upcoming repairs and renovations. This initiative will greatly benefit our students, allowing them to study in a more conducive and comfortable environment,” SCNHS Principal Josephine Aragon said.

With the LSB’s proactive approach and substantial financial allocation, SCNHS is poised to undergo a significant transformation through repairs and renovations that will undoubtedly enhance the overall educational experience, instilling a sense of pride and enthusiasm within the school community.

‘Chikiting Ligtas’ DOH secures free immunization

photo by michael VILLARET Embracing Culture. SCNHS SamSarDaCo executes ‘Sama-Bajau’ tribe with confidence during the Hugyaw Sayaw Championship ’22 Cultural Dance Competition.

photo by chely YANA

Access Granted. DOH breaks barriers with free immunization by promoting a proactive approach to public health.

Sta. Cruz MHO alarmed on rising HIV-AIDS cases

Bebanco urges sex education for youth

Local Government Unit (LGU) of Santa Cruz, through Municipal Health Office (MHO), invested in sex education through programs about reproductive health, saying that abstinence is no longer appropriate for preventing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diseases.

by kline MANAPOL

“Hopefully, they can practice abstinence, but given the current behavior of adolescents, this is untenable. We must have sex education,” MHO Nurse II Mariel Jay Bebanco said in an interview at the Municipal Health Center.

Bebanco revealed that teens around 15- to 24-yearolds dominated the MHO HIV Vulnerable testing during the Araw ng Santa Cruz last 2022.

Moreover, the earliest sexual activity case within the locality involved a 7-year-old pupil due to peer pressure. This was also exposed after HIV testing results in 2017.

“The testing was not to prove that there are many positive cases of HIV here, but to campaign that it is okay to participate in HIV testing,” Bebangco said.

“HIV testing should be normalized, and we must break the stigma,” she added.

Meanwhile, Santa Cruz ranked 2nd with the most HIV cases across Davao del Sur,

DavSur’s powerhouse in journalism,

SCNHS opens SPJ, hones students’

journalistic skills

by alleah HOSAKA

The school offers Special Program in Journalism (SPJ) after its outstanding performance in journalism competitions, accommodating students with critical and creative thinking skills and specific abilities and talents in journalism.

Division of the Davao del Sur chose the school to open the program due to its competitive reputation in journalism, particularly given that the school was the Division Schools Press Conferences champion for how many years and maintained its success in producing campus journalists who won in the region and qualified in the national level.

Before the implementation, DepEd Region XI evaluated the school through an online conference discussing the preparation and other important matters concerning the program.

“Without hesitations, we started during the School Year 2021-2022, still at the height of the pandemic, because primarily this program helps students develop their oral and written communication skills, which are essential in any field. It can aid in developing creative and critical thinking, which are vital skills for any individual. It’s now in the second year of implementation,” SPJ Coordinator Girlie June J. Solamo said in an interview.

Solamo also expressed her gratitude to program partners, particularly the Local School Board, who provided essential equipment, such as DSLR cameras, broadcast lapels, studio lights, and a laptop.

She added that this year the program also requested additional equipment, such as an audio mixer, video mixer, broadcast

Harnessing youth’s skills,

Eknadan declared DFYES-O president, vows to boost conservation policies

by yancy MARISCAL

having 45 cases from 1986 until 2023.

“I know there are still a lot of people who choose not to take it (HIV testing) because some are still ashamed and scared of the possible result,” Bebanco said as she emphasized that everyone should be responsible for their sexual activities and get the test as soon as possible.

Further, MHO offers free healthcare services like treatments for persons with HIV and TB diseases.

They also have a website called ‘Awrasafely.com’ which promotes free HIV self-testing, as well as lubricants, condoms, free medicines taken before sex to avoid the virus, and educational videos.

2nd

highest number of HIV cases in DavSur is Santa Cruz

Federation of the Division of Davao del Sur Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (DFYES-O) proclaimed Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS) YES-O President Jenoel Jacob Eknadan as DFYES-O president, highlighting his advocacy on the need for environmental conservation to address climate change’s impact on the ecosystem.

“Starting with small environmental conservation policies, such as in our residences, can help save Mother Earth; we need to sustain all the needs of the environment,” he said.

He emphasized that the solid waste problem had been a problem for decades.

“It’s one of my goals. I said during my speech at the DFYES-O election that the need to educate, remind, and apply the RA 9003 is much needed through the partnerships of the stakeholders. We can address this issue,” he added.

Eknadan also expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the presidents of YES-O from all schools in Davao del Sur.

“I hope to discuss and develop plans to promote environmental friendliness

in other schools and sustain the responsible usage of natural resources, as well as various activities, such as tree planting and cleanups, that can be integrated into their plans to raise environmental awareness among students,” he said.

He garnered 24 votes out of the 40 secondary students during the DFYES-O election held at Apolinar Franco Sr. Elementary School.

“I am happy and blessed, and at the same time very honored to become the president to present projects and activities to the whole Davao del Sur for a better, greener, and much safer environment,” Eknadan said in an interview.

The Nautilus Online Survey, 9 out of 10 students OK with genderless clothing

by aubrey RHOM

SCNHS ‘The Nautilus’ online survey exposed that 142 out of 148 respondents from Facebook agreed to allow students in wearing their preferred clothes regardless of their gender. FB poll posted online showed that 96% of the 148 respondents said yes, while 4% or 6 said no.

Moreover, students were currently limited to wearing pants for males and skirts for females except on Wednesdays or ‘Wash Day’ as advised by the School head.

“As long as they wear non-revealing clothing, it is acceptable, ” Secondary School Assistant Principal, Mary Jen Geromo said.

First-ever college in town,

LGU to open DSSC-Sta Cruz campus in August

by evo SOLAMO

console, and video cameras, to improve the program’s instructional delivery quality.

make a difference through their words.

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Santa Cruz confirmed they would open the Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) Santa Cruz Campus extension this August, offering Bachelor of Science in Education and Agribusiness and Information Technology courses.

“If you can still pursue higher education, do all you can to pursue it,”

students, then much better so that the room shortage will not be a problem,” she added.

Atty. Charlotte Gallego, Sangguniang Bayan Councilor, said in an interview.

from page 1

“SPJ helps take a step towards developing future journalists who can contribute to shaping and transforming society and the nation amidst the current era of disinformation and misinformation,” she added.

Each Grade Level is focused on the following Standards: Journalism 7 learners demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles, techniques, and legal and ethical standards of journalism by producing a newsletter; Journalism 8 learners demonstrate an understanding of the advanced and broader applications of the principles, techniques, and ethical standards of journalism by producing an eight-page print and online news publication responsive to individual, school, community, societal, national, and global needs.

Journalism 9 learners demonstrate an understanding of the principles, techniques, and ethical standards of journalism by producing radio news programs, and Journalism 10 learner demonstrates an understanding of the principles, techniques, and ethical standards of journalism by producing T.V. news programs in response to individual, school, community, societal, national, and global needs.

Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated that SPJ equips students with oral and writing skills and seeks to cultivate learners’ knowledge, abilities, and morals across multiple media platforms. It focuses predominantly on providing them with the mastery of skills necessary for studies and careers in journalism and other related disciplines.

LGU, SCAYO mold first-ever Project Hulma

by angel BECHER

S anta Cruz Association of Youth Organizations (SCAYO), Santa Cruz Youth Development Office (SCYDO), Public Employment Service Office (PESO), and Municipal Mayor’s Office (MMO) launched the First ever One Santa Cruz Youth Skills Camp, known as Project ‘Hulma,’ involving student leaders and campus journalists from Sta. Cruz National High School among the participants.

Project Hulma aimed to develop the skills of the participants through workshops about Photography and Videography, Graphic Design and Video Editing, Hosting, and Public Speaking facilitated by the student

leaders of Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU), John Denver Duo, Elijah James Banuelos, Karlo Torreon, and Mariah Shane Ng last October 28, 2022, at Anastacio G. Canda Elementary School.

“This event refined my graphic design skills and gained more knowledge for future endeavors,” campus journalist Lawrence Abangan said.

Moreover, Youth Program Focal Person, SCAYO Chairperson, and Sibol Santa Cruz President, Jerry Huerbana, supported the project with the SCAYO Moderator Atty. Charlotte Gallego, MMO Youth Coordinator Stephanie Cartoneros, and presidents from different local YOs and YSOs.

Atty. Gallego stated that passers on the admission test would enjoy free tuition and additional funding from the companies who unofficially pledged to their office.

“Top-performing students will be prioritized,” Gallego said.

The DSSC Santa Cruz campus will utilize three rooms in the old municipal hall limited to accommodate 300 students.

“If we cannot achieve that 300

Students claimed that participating in the event elevated their appreciation of Rizal’s novels more than reading the previous version during modular distance learning.

“Although there were miscommunications and difficulties in language usage, my co-students and teachers were supportive and participated well with the validators, so we enjoyed the activity,” a Grade 11 participant stated after the one-week event.

According to Memorandum DMCT-2023-087, the improvement of the literary masterpieces into a DepEd and National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) version was based on the recommendations of the teacherevaluators and the experts in the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal from the University of the Philippines to ensure the appropriateness of the language used in the materials with the target learners; hence, the need to undergo field-testing for validation for easier comprehension of the students.

SCNHS was chosen as one of the

Gallego admitted that they faced issues in implementing the plan, and budget, particularly in giving wages and salaries to future employees and achieving the needed student population.

“Our Municipal Mayor, Jose Nelson Sala, said he only finished Grade 4, and with that, he emphasized the importance of education, which we, as his back-ups, did our best to support his

school in the Davao Region to participate and help DepEd amplify the modern version nationwide and motivate learners to reread

subject grades from their preceding grade level, wherein students were grouped from ‘Outstanding’ having a 90-100 grade average, to ‘Fairly satisfactory’ with a 75-79 grade.

photo by mark RAFFAELA

photo

Privileges on Privileged. SCNHS debuts the Special Program in Journalism (SPJ) and empowers students to

photo by fiona LORICO

Marilyn Dean

Assistant School Principal (SHS): Mary Geromo

School Principal: Josephine Aragon

Centuries-old novels, timeless influence

In a time when there is a growing concern for the erosion of Filipino culture and national identity, the field testing activity conducted at Santa Cruz National High School on the modernization of Patricio Mariano’s versions of Jose Rizal’s timeless novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo comes as a welcome development. The experience has left the students beyond grateful, as it allowed them to gain a better understanding of the novels and engage with the material more meaningfully.

The five-day activity, participated by selected Grade 10 and 11 students and some Grade 9 students, aims “to contribute to the formation of values among learners such as nationalism, appreciation, and cultivation of the Filipino culture.” It aims to raise awareness about the value of nationalism among the youth, to protect what our forefathers have fought for, and to keep democracy, peace, and unity among Filipinos. The school intends them to understand the significance of Rizal’s works in shaping their national identity and appreciate the efforts to make the material more relevant to their lives.

Republic Act No. 1425, also known as the Rizal Law, requires all schools in the Philippines to teach the life, works, and writings of Jose Rizal, including his two novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. The Rizal Law serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Rizal and other Filipino heroes in the struggle for independence and national identity. By studying Rizal’s life and works, the youth can gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of their forefathers and become more motivated to contribute to the development and progress of the Philippines.

Furthermore, the novels showcase the power and beauty of the Filipino language and literature to effect change. Rizal was a master of the Filipino language, and his books are considered some of the finest examples of Philippine literature. By using the people’s language, Rizal was able to reach a broad audience and inspire a sense of national consciousness among Filipinos. Reading these novels can help young Filipinos appreciate the beauty and richness of their language and encourage them to use the power of language and literature to effect positive change in the community.

in the novels do not apply to modern society.

Thus, the field testing activity was carried out by SCNHS with a group of selected students and teachers to pinpoint challenging words and lines in the novel that readers might struggle to comprehend. The text is to be revised to make it more comprehensible and engaging, to help readers realize that while the literary pieces are set in a specific historical context, they deal with universal themes that make them relevant and vital for the youth nowadays. The books explore love, justice, and oppression, which can resonate with readers from all backgrounds. Additionally, the novels present multiple perspectives on important issues such as religion, social inequality, and nationalism, encouraging readers to question and take action to address these social issues that they might experience within their communities.

“Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo” may have been written over a century ago, but their relevance and impact on Philippine society remain as strong as ever. The field testing activity was implemented to help the youth realize that these two literary masterpieces are more than just historical artifacts; they are works of art that continue to inspire and challenge us today. By reading and understanding the themes presented in these novels, it can help the students bring back their joy of reading and gain valuable insights and perspectives that will help shape their identity and their role in society, enabling them to become catalysts for change, therefore contributing to the progress and development of the nation.

Evidenced Point

by ashley CONCEPCION

May it be curiosity, social media influence, or lack of sex education, all are great contributors to the fast-growing number of sex scandals.

Pivot to normalization of sex

For the past few months, the rising number of circulating footage of sex scandals has been controversial. It is disappointing to know that with some of the students getting involved in these anomalies, the issues have been alarming the schools and the community, creating an idea that can be overwhelming to grasp. Some possible causes of why some students are susceptible to practicing sexual activities can be out of curiosity or social media influence.

According to Harborview in 2012, most children by age five are already curious about how babies were made, the differences between the male and female body, and the likes. The fact that students are taught in school about the lessons encompassing the reproductive systems and its functions are undeniable, however, the content and approach vary widely depending on the school and region.

Sexual curiosity isn’t a phenomenon that arises at adolescence. Teenagers aged 12-14 years, the typical age bracket for high school students, are becoming more curious about sex and sexuality as they develop. Scientifically, it is natural for them to be curious about sex as they go through puberty and experience changes in their bodies and emotions. However, though these are scientifically proven, no valid reason should be why students should practice such behavior.

On the other hand, while social media is a neutral ground, it is the so-called “sexual super peer” for information-seeking teenagers about sex. It paves the way to easy access to sexual content, exposing students to explicit images and contents that affect their attitudes and behaviors towards sex. In a study conducted by an

American team, a direct relationship between the amount of sexual content children see and their level of intentions to engage in such activities has been found, which can shape their attitudes and beliefs towards sex. With this, it is evident how influential social media is and how it plays a vital role as a source of sexual socialization among teenagers unless used responsibly.

The country had a high teenage pregnancy rate in 2019, with over 500 teens giving birth daily. Conforming to Salvador’s study in 2016, the lack of sex education is one of the most significant contributors affecting teenagers’ initiation to sexual activities.

Conjointly, the research by De Guzman and others proved that sex education being hindered and looked down upon in the Philippines, causes many teenagers and sexually active individuals to be unaware of essential knowledge that can protect them from the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned parenthood.

As a result, young people are consequently denied even the most basic information about their sexual and reproductive health and rights, as the Senior Programme Specialist in Health Education at UNESCO, Joanna Herat mentioned. Lack of sex education may not be

solely blamed for this dilemma; however, it cannot hinder the fact that with a lot of students being unaware and irresponsible of their sexual health, it has immensely contributed to it.

May it be curiosity, social media influence, or lack of sex education, all are great contributors to the fast-growing number of sex scandals. However, with appropriate and comprehensive sex education, I think this can be addressed. In this well-rounded educational system, sex education, which should be an essential aspect of the curriculum, is often neglected and depreciated.

However, some individuals claim that they choose not to read Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo because they find the novels too heavily steeped in the Filipino language and difficult to comprehend certain words. Moreover, some argue that reading “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo” is irrelevant due to the perception that the context of the novels is outdated. Since the books were written during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines and dealt with issues from that period, they claim that the themes 500

Although some still believe that sex remains an inappropriate topic for conversation, that the words “penis”, “vagina”, and “sex” are “unbecoming” of us, instead, we must teach how the understanding of sex and sexuality is essential to honing our skills in making informed decisions about our sexual health and well-being. Being in the pivotal moment, where we are given the avenue to empower the students and the youth, it is the time to take one step forward and let juvenescence not develop and tolerate such carefree attitudes towards issues of sexuality; only by then that this unending burden meet its end.

Dispatch

Broken Resources to be Repaired by neuhart GEMENTIZA page 5

Overflow

Flushing Away

Neglect by arniel TORAYNO page 6

Letter to the Editors by dionah ROBLES page 7

Filipino teens pregnant and giving birth

EDITORIAL FORUM

instances in the past, and even up to the present, that several teachers were having a relationship with the students or pupils. So, in order to avoid it, the teachers should avoid communication or any relationship with the students. It’s all because the teachers should be an aside from being a model of virtue and morality, teachers should instill fairness with the students because the moment they have been communicating with the students outside of the school or outside of the learning facility, it might create a situation where the teachers are favoring some students, unless of course with the exception under the memorandum circular pertaining to the relatives. But even then, teachers, even if that particular student is his/her relative, should always maintain fairness in his dealings with the students. So, it is precisely on that matter that the Department of Education stated that it is circular so that morality and virtue will be maintained, and fairness in the dealing with the students will be upheld.

That memorandum of the DepEd is actually to answer one of the most controversial prohibitions in the ethical standards for professionals, including teachers. It is stated in the ethical standards it is not actually prohibited if there is consent. So that specific of the DepEd issued recently, that the specific Order would answer that portion of the ethical standard that it is indeed prohibited to enter a relationship a teacher and a student and even prohibits exchange of communication through social media. So, my stand on that matter considering especially the age gap and the professional standard that governs teachers, I would like to give a stand that I am in favor of that order because we need to maintain a professional relationship between and among teachers and students in that matter. So, teachers are expected to behave in such a manner that would be in accord with the ethical standards.

So, if you enter into a relationship with someone that is under your custody, parang it’s sort of saying that you are, kung baga you’re committing a violation on the ethical standards.

Well, let us look at it in a positive way when our DepEd Secretary just wanted to let the students and teachers have a kind of relationship that should only be limited being teachers and students. Then, anyway in a classroom setting, orient the students or learners or handled by the said teachers is just okay to follow the teacher or the teachers and learners following each other. I think the thing is being pointed out in that DepEd Order is that when a particular student who is not being handled a particular teacher should follow that student of teacher, there is something wrong with that. So, if it has been curtailed the good relationship between and among the students and learners but then it’s just a way of controlling because we know that the effect of social media wherein it’s very influential to the students, even to the teachers themselves. It’s just a way of, shall we say, not necessarily controlling, but putting a kind of distance between and among the students and the teachers. But there is no such thing as curtailment of the freedom of expression and speech between and among the teachers and the learners.

Well, basically this is still relative to protection of our learners, not only protection of ours but also to make sure that all engagement of learners is done inside the classroom, so meaning outside of the school premises, it would already be catamount to also getting the privacy of our learners at the same time both teachers and the learners. I look into this a very proactive policy for us to make sure that our authority including our teachers, those who are in authority to teach, or in authority to engage in teaching are provided the policy, clear policy of where and how they are going to engage into learners. The policy is something that will also help our parents as well that learners might as well be protected from any abuse if there are. You know even qualities would be somehow uncertain at times, so with that, the direction of our agency is to look into the welfare of our students.

As DepEd implementers, we are implementing all DepEd programs and projects. So I think, not only DepEd programs but also policies. So whatever the policies of the DepEd, the Division, District, and School will implement them.

So since this is already a memorandum, encouraging or in joining the schools and teachers, teaching/non-teaching personnel not to indulge in posting social media, especially in terms of the learners. I think that’s relevant because of one way of preserving integrity as a teacher. There should have been distance or some limit, except the stated in the memorandum that if it is relative you could because, siyempre naa man siya’y relationship sa learner. Pero when it comes to outside of business in terms sa iyahang teacher relationship to a learner relationship there should have been privacy.

Being the school principal, I strictly adhere to the guidelines, memorandum, and policies of DepEd, so we must abide by that one. So, connections by teacher and student, strictly prohibited for that case. But if we can have that one, if there are problematic students, teachers really must go on home visitation, not through the online so connections with that one so that the teacher can also see what the real scenario is why students are not engaged in school, attending to their classes regularly. So, in this case also, I know for the purpose of our secretary for that one, really protecting the young students. Teachers are not abusive; they are always looking for the welfare of the students, but we really must adhere to that one. I also instruct the teachers, especially in the intimate relationship, on too much closeness should be avoided. There must be a gap between teachers and students so that teachers must always be honored and respected in the classroom, outside the school premises, or whenever or whatever the students and teachers do.

Dispatch by neuhart GEMENTIZA

Very strict ta labina sa mga bata, labina for relationships like in high school na there are many ano na teachers who are basig iba na ang mga pagtingin ng mga stakeholders especially dagko na ang mga learners. For elementary, very strict pud mi ana labina when it comes to posting sa ilahang mga faces sa students using them especially in TikToks while nagklase sila and that’s also prohibited labina na walay consent sa parent. So that’s it. In my stand, I always encourage my school leaders, my school principals to remind the teachers not to or to implement the DepEd Memorandum 49 really strictly.

Regarding that DepEd Memorandum, it will be released without the good intention of the Department of the purpose of that memorandum. Most probably, I have heard there are few cases of abuse from the teachers towards their students, especially teachers engaging in implicit relationships with students. Most probably, to avoid such things happening, the DepEd probably sees that there is a need for the teachers not to be friends with the students in social media because usually that would be a distraction. Social media now influences students. Actually, the attitude of our learners is influenced by social media as I have seen. On my part, in my humble opinion as the PTA President of this school, I do believe there could be a good reason for that but in my opinion, there should be somewhat a limitation on that. As a former teacher, I have that relationship developed with the students as teacher and student. We cannot prevent it because we need to befriend our students because one of motivating them to study more or learn more in our classroom is to make friends with them, but the intention should be for school purposes and for that student to grow to become a good person. You should be a good influence on your students. So that is why, this Memorandum has good intentions, but it also has limitations. But on my part, social media or making friends with your students is okay but not beyond school hours or probably not beyond late time, especially on chatting the teachers constantly, that would be a distraction. If students have school-related concerns about teachers, the teacher could reply but the conversation is personal, the teacher should not go beyond that. Let’s put ourselves in the middle, seeing that this memorandum has benefits and limitations.

Donnell John B. Contiveros SPTA President – Sta. Cruz National High School

Broken resources to be repaired

It’s crucial to ensure the optimal physical condition of classrooms and school facilities as they significantly impact student learning and engagement. As the school is already facing a shortage of supplies, the students are further expected to be more responsible for maintaining school property. Yet, there has been an escalating number of incidents of school property destruction.

Over the past few months, the number of broken armchairs with cracked seats or without writing boards has been growing. One of the main reasons for this issue is the habit of students sitting on the writing boards or placing objects that exceed the weight capacity of the seat. As a result, the cracked chairs or loose writing boards require students to rely on alternative surfaces, such as their knees or the floor, for writing which can be inconvenient and uncomfortable, as it may limit their space or disrupt their posture during class.

According to a ninth-grade student who experienced a broken armchair, a repair can take up to two weeks, leaving them without access to a writing board for several days. The absence of a writing board made it difficult for students to take notes during classes, forcing them to write on their knees for support. Unfortunately, this makeshift solution caused discomfort and back pain, particularly after prolonged periods in this position. If this goes unaddressed, staying in this position throughout the day for a couple of weeks can cause long-term health issues such as poor posture and hinder the student’s ability to study and learn.

Another pressing concern is that some classrooms don’t have window grids for an additional layer of security, so the incomplete jalousie or window panes in several classrooms raise concerns. This creates an opportunity for unauthorized individuals to break into the classrooms, resulting in theft, property damage,

or loss of critical educational resources.

Given that classes last, 8 hours, going to the bathroom is inevitable. However, when the comfort rooms are out of order or unclean, it becomes a problem. There are multiple reported cases of comfort rooms with broken doors, damaged toilets, or lack of water supply, making it challenging to maintain cleanliness. As a result, students get discouraged from exercising their right to use the restroom. When they have no choice but to do so, they expose themselves to increased hygiene risks and a higher chance of contracting diseases.

Our school prioritizes the construction of new classrooms and allocates a budget every school year primarily for building repairs and expansions. As a result, repairs for school equipment are only addressed if there are remaining funds from the classroom construction budget. That is why an immediate restoration of all broken equipment, if it even gets fixed, is not guaranteed. This is all the more reason students must put extra effort into taking care of the school equipment, especially the armchairs, as they use every day and significantly affect the result of their studies.

The school should establish well-defined guidelines and penalties for harm inflicted on school property. Engaging the students in developing these policies can help promote a sense of ownership and responsibility and motivate them to protect the school’s resources actively. It must be ensured that the rules and consequences are consistently enforced across the school to communicate that the school takes the issue seriously.

It is crucial to know that preserving school property is not only the responsibility of the school administration but also of the students. The government invests significant resources in building and equipping schools with the expectation that students will make the most of these resources and use them to enhance their learning experiences. Students must ensure that these resources will remain functional and valuable for years to come so that future generations of students can benefit from the same high-quality educational resources. Through preserving and maintaining school property, students contribute to the betterment of their community and create a positive learning environment for themselves and future generations.

by aubrey RHOM

Rethinking the K-to-12 curriculum

Before the 2012 implementation of the K-to-12 Program, many opposed it because it exacerbated poverty due to the years required to complete high school and enroll in college. Now that the program is gaining widespread support, a call to replace the curriculum because it is ineffective, raises concerns.

Senior Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo proposed a “K+10+2” Basic Education Program to replace the current K-to-12 Curriculum, which, according to her, has failed to produce a job-ready student. The proposed legislation will continue to cover kindergarten and ten years of fundamental education based on House Bill 7893. However, after high school, students can pursue two years of post-secondary or pre-university education to prepare them for professional degree studies.

Arroyo reasoned that a two-year education was a waste of time, especially for impoverished students who wish to graduate as quickly as feasible to support their families.

Nevertheless, eliminating the senior high school (SHS) program increases the likelihood that graduates will be unprepared.

Consideration should also be given to our nation’s dearth of skills and competence, which, according to the most recent PISA results, the Philippines placed second-tolast in reading comprehension, mathematics, and science literacy.

So much is on our plates. Instead of making the program voluntary, DepEd should just enhance the program.

This may not affect students who intend to pursue higher education; instead, it provides them with options for their future. However, the modification will completely alter the K-to-12 structure, system, and learners’ perceptions.

Although Arroyo’s law appeared to benefit economically disadvantaged citizens, the country needs an effective solution to literacy and job-specific skills, and they should focus on equipping students with these rather than ripping what they had already sown.

Bullseye

“ Students must ensure that school resources remain functional and valuable for future generations to benefit from the same highquality education.

Hon.

Atty. Jerome A. Undalok Vice Mayor Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur

What is your stance on teachers communicating with students through social media outside of the school setting, considering the provisions of Republic Act No. 6713 and Amendment to DepEd Order No. 047 s. 2022?

The teachers at every level, from elementary, high school, and even college should be a model and a paragon of virtue. There are

Hon. Atty Charlotte F. Gallego Municipal Councilor – Committee on Education Chairperson

Lorenzo E. Mendoza CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent – Davao del Sur

Janette G. Veloso CESO VI, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent – Davao del Sur

Hazel V. Luna, Ph.D. Public Schools District Supervisor – Santa Cruz South District

Josephine A. Aragon Secondary School Principal II – Sta. Cruz National High School

Overflow

“The lack of accessible and sanitary restrooms in schools not only compromises students’ fundamental rights but also jeopardizes their health and wellbeing

Flushing away neglect

A ccess to a comfort room in a school is both a right and a privilege for most students who attend public schools where the budget is insufficient to sustain and provide sanitary and safe CRs. Neglecting comfort rooms exposes students to dangers and diseases more than we think.

Students have the fundamental right to have an accessible comfort room in their school. But in Sta. Cruz National High School, many students reported that the comfort rooms were either not working or ‘too dirty’ to use. It was also reported from sections of the 4th floor that facilities in comfort rooms are not heavily tackled to fix. Undisciplined students have done many property destructions such as cracked toilets or broken doors.

Many students on the Junior High campus reported unsafe, non-functioning restrooms; the plunger was damaged.

The lack of adequate water flow throughout the four-story, most populous building makes it difficult for students to get through the day. In a miraculous situation, water flows, but waste disposal prevents students from accessing the restroom.

Princess Nicole Palanca, the president of a 10th-grade classroom, addressed the issues surrounding CRs on the Senior High Campus. She stated that the restrooms were “barely clean,” and students could not use them due to the stench. Circumstances such as these are regarded as trivial, but the fact that the school cannot provide learners with an accessible restroom is a significant issue for them. Students spend an average of eight hours daily in school, from morning to afternoon, and the lack of a toilet is a constant mental and physical struggle.

In Enviro MaMaster’slog, unclean bathrooms can harbor various diseases that students are prone to. Common conditions

Educated Bullet

by fiona LORICO

include E. coli, Salmonella, noroviruses, influenza (the flu), and the common cold. Another is that students who cannot use the restroom when necessary are more likely to develop UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections).

Because unclean comfort rooms are normalized in schools, students are vulnerable and exposed to these diseases. It is a health hazard to neglect these comfort rooms.

The cleanliness and sanitation of restrooms can be maintained through proper waste disposal. This would be an opportunity to educate students about basic sanitation, but only if the school has

accessible facilities. Students are apprehensive due to the need for more clean facilities.

Repairing defective comfort rooms at Santa Cruz National High School is part of the Rehabilitation Projects of the Local School Board with an allocated budget from the Special Education Fund.

The school could promptly prioritize the restoration and allocate sufficient funds to construct risk-free and secure facilities so students must practice healthy and hygienic behaviors. Students are the primary consumers of these restrooms, so they are expected to maintain them properly.

Changing Seasons, Unchanging Issues

by lawrence ABANGAN

Beyond weather challenges

The recent proposal to postpone the start of school to June to avoid the summer heat has ignited a debate. However, this overlooks the main issue: the condition of our educational infrastructure and support systems. Shifting the academic calendar only serves as a temporary solution to a deeper problem. Our children face weatherrelated issues year-round and a mere timetable adjustment doesn’t address this. Uncomfortable classrooms obstruct learning, whether they’re too hot or waterlogged.

Class cancellation due to weather, usually preempted by local government, often disrupts learning more than the weather itself. The real solution involves improving infrastructure to ensure a conducive learning environment, such as installing adequate cooling systems or flood-proofing schools. Additionally, we must prepare for possible future reliance on online learning due to extreme weather, necessitating improved internet infrastructure.

Safeguarding students in a treacherous landscape

In a world where education goes beyond the classroom walls, our commitment to the safety and well-being of students must transcend the boundaries of school premises. As we strive to create secure havens within schools, it is imperative to confront the sobering reality that dangers lurk beyond those gates.

From the hidden perils of cyberspace to the physical risks posed by their neighborhoods, students navigate a treacherous landscape that demands our unwavering attention. It is time to extend the circle of safety, fortify the shield around the students, and ensure their protection with every step outside the school perimeter.

This brings us to one of the most concerning problems our school faces: the gang-related problems and cyberbullying that put the students and educators at stake and the school’s reputation. There are a lot of gangrelated cases and cyberbullying reported here at our school that made the whole community hearken as rumors circulated that all the people involved are minors.

Gangs operating outside schools have developed a reputation for engaging in violent and ruthless activities. Supporting such a claim is one issue in the locality involving elementary and high school students.

Acts of violence perpetrated by this gang include brutal beatings, which have led to severe injuries and emotional trauma for the victim.

In another case, one of the parents who was rumored to have a dispute with one of the students at SCNHS took such a shocking and callous action. They did not just drag down the students’ dignity but also the school’s nobility. In this case, making their primary objective so apparent, which is to establish dominance, induce dread, and exert control over the individual, often results in a pervasive sense of insecurity within the community.

According to PNP-Santa Cruz Pssg. Jonipher Hinampas, the age range of the most known gangs in the municipality, is 13 and above. It is alarming to know that minors likely to be influenced by vices are involved.

Contrary to that, he further explained that out of a population of 10 gang members, only one of them is more likely to be a minor. Although it is quite a small number for us to be alarmed, complacency

isn’t always the best thing to do, as change is the only constant.

Furthermore, he later explained that one of the main reasons for a minor’s involvement in joining gangs is having a broken family. It comes to my realization that these gang members are not merely faces. They crave so desperately for an entity that can provide love and support, and that entity is known as a family.

In addition, a malevolent force flourishes behind the screens and keyboards, inflicting incalculable suffering on its victims. SCNHS’ Head Teacher III stated that there had been five reported cases of cyberbullying from October 2022 to March 2023. This constant barrage of hurtful messages, derogatory comments, and public humiliation takes a toll on the mental health of those targeted, often leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

And for that matter, to truly address the issue, we must strive to understand the underlying factors that push individuals into the dangerous embrace of such

Campus journalism thrives in the academe heart

Students interested in journalism may find themselves torn between fulfilling academic obligations and pursuing opportunities that allow them to develop their journalistic skills. Neglect, perhaps? But it is thereby compromising the quality of education provided to aspiring journalists. Some educators may prioritize personal biases or sensationalism over the principles of fairness and objectivity, thereby diluting the integrity of the field.

foul behaviors. Only then can we begin to explore avenues of prevention and rehabilitation and give these lost souls a chance at redemption.

Luckily, SCNHS educators and student leaders are doing their best to effectively combat every problem students face inside and outside the school premises. Moreover, the school heads have already conducted and are planning to conduct more symposiums, programs, and school organization projects to eradicate further the problems that transcend the boundaries of the school premises.

Ensuring student safety outside the school premises requires a collective and concerted effort from educators, parents, communities, and students. By expanding our focus beyond the classroom walls and addressing students’ daily challenges, we can create a comprehensive safety net that nurtures their well-being. Together, let us prioritize student safety, empower the students, and build communities where they can thrive, both within and outside the school environment.

The pressure on teachers and students also needs addressing, symbolized by children lugging heavy backpacks. We need to reevaluate our curriculum and teaching hours for their welfare. A significant overhaul of our education system is necessary, requiring substantial funding and a shift in priorities, like better utilization of the Department of Education’s intelligence fund to improve facilities.

Serious consideration should be given to proposals like transforming the K-12 program into a K-10 + 2 model, focusing more on employable skills. Attention must be given to curriculum substance and support for educators.

In essence, weather-proofing our education system is a minor part of the solution. The larger need is to futureproof it by addressing structural issues, despite the costs. The benefits of a resilient, future-ready education system are invaluable.

Campus Journalism Act of 1991

(Republic Act No. 7079) endorses campus journalism development, highlighting the country’s commitment to press freedom.

Education is not just about acquiring knowledge and scoring good grades but also about fostering creativity and critical thinking and allowing students to explore their passions. Among those passions lie journalism—a field that empowers young minds to engage with the world, express their opinions, and shed light on important issues. However, a concerning trend has emerged in our educational institutions, where ignorance affects students’ journalistic pursuits, leaving them torn and divided by their academic performance. traditional academic performance indicators above all else. This narrow focus on grades, test scores, and conventional subjects leaves little room for creative outlets, such as journalism, leading to a stark division among students.

Niche by jenoel EKNADAN

Over the past years until now, campus journalists often face the most concerns about some people needing to be more considerate, disregarding the essence of campus journalism, and not knowing they are protected under a specific Republic Act.

The “Campus Journalism Act of 1991”

A DepEd memo at NCR states that the highest grade of non-campus journalists should also be given to the campus journalists if they comply with the requirements needed on that subject. Students must be excused from their classes, but they are required to submit their requirements on their academic subjects. Yet, within the educational realm, some individuals have chosen to ignore its principles, compromising the integrity of journalism education and perpetuating a culture of unethical reporting.

Unfortunately, despite the potential benefits, some fail to recognize student journalism’s importance and prioritize

“Inconsiderate,” as some journalists say, led to the division among students caused by some peoples’ neglect of their journalistic pursuits and is a disheartening reality in many educational institutions. We must recognize the importance of campus journalism to empower young minds, foster critical thinking, and promote active engagement in society.

The division between academics and journalism is a concern. Recognizing these challenges and offering support and integration can empower student journalists to succeed, paving the way for conflict-free future careers.

It is the declared policy of the State to uphold and protect the freedom of the press even at the campus level and to promote the development and growth of campus journalism as a means of strengthening ethical values, encouraging critical and creative thinking, and developing moral character and personal discipline of the Filipino youth. In furtherance of this policy, the State shall undertake various programs and projects aimed at improving the journalistic skills of students concerned and promoting responsible and free journalism.

“We must recognize the importance of campus journalism to empower young minds, foster critical thinking, and promote active engagement in society.”

“The real solution involves improving infrastructure to ensure a conducive learning environment.

Do overpopulated classrooms affect your learning?

I find it difficult to seek clarification, ask questions, or receive additional explanations because of the large number of my classmates competing for our teacher’s attention. I get hesitant to actively participate in class discussions due to my fear of being overlooked but also because of the limited opportunities.

Zyrell Osmena

Grade 8-Aster

Personally, overpopulated classroom can affect my learning negatively because too many students in a classroom can cause loud sounds and too much talking which may disturbed my studying

April Capitan

Equilibrium by jerika MAWALIC

Eating various street foods is a must whenever students are allowed to go outside the school. It’s budget-friendly and can fill one’s cravings and stomach, thus, a preferred food by students.

Yes, overpopulated classrooms can cause distractions to students, especially to me because of the noises coming from my classmates. I can’t focus in classes because of it, which can result in low scores during quizzes.

Maria Palanca

In our country’s already hot and humid climate, the large number of students led to an increase in temperature because of the confined space of our classroom and few electric fans. This makes it challenging for me to concentrate on our lessons and work on our learning tasks because I often feel sweaty, fatigued, and physically uncomfortable. I also found that the noise and lack of personal space from my classmates sometimes results to my patience decreasing and being less motivated to engage in our learning activities.

Amatong

Balancing cravings and concerns

The reopening of face-to-face classes opened the doors for food street vendors who wanted to profit effectively. As students will be swarming outside the school campuses, all schools must reinforce food safety protocols and policies. Immediately. are entirely safe. They sell beside the school solely because there’s foot traffic, thus, having a greater chance of making a profit. There are also street vendors who follow food hygiene guidelines to provide customers with food that is safe to eat.

Renamae Tanio, who has been selling

Spike

by ellaine CORTEZANO

Peeling back the layers

School clubs are one thing, but gangs are unprohibited clubs composed of minors that are unguided in their decisions. It takes a whole community to give these children the right path.

However, cases of poisoning, injuries, and death caused by food sold outside schools have risen even before the pandemic.

Since 2005 to 2021, several foodborne disease outbreaks affecting students and teachers have been reported.

There were 63 outbreaks, 4354 hospitalizations, 635 home medications, and 38 reported deaths during this 17-year period. Despite the DepEd policies, this issue still requires immediate attention.

A recent case of food poisoning has hospitalized six teachers and 88 students of a public elementary school in Occidental Mindoro because of lumpia turon bought from a street vendor that isn’t authorized by the school head.

In addition, the sidewalk outside Sta. Cruz National High School is lined with vendors selling various goods and beverages, including fried food, junk food, drinks, and more. It would become crowded every afternoon. Nicole Segara, a student at STE 10-ATOM, claimed to have experienced stomach aches after eating isaw that she had purchased three times from a street vendor.

fried food next to SCNHS for nearly a year, claims that not all vendors are irresponsible enough to serve food prepared in an unsanitary and unhygienic environment. She continued that it is essential to keep the food sanitary to protect consumers from such ailments. These incidents have caused a lot of misconceptions among street vendors. While it is true that some do cause harm, it is absurd to assume that all vendors do the same. We must refrain from prohibiting food street vendors outside school campuses to ensure we can continuously improve school food safety regulations and be cautious about what we consume.

In the municipality of Sta. Cruz, there were multiple reported cases of gangs; some went viral from their wrongdoings. This was a call for help amongst the children. It is not simply about what they did wrong, but it is about what factors are leading them to choose wrong decisions.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Sta. Cruz, Pssg Jonipher T. Hinampas, stated that from January to May, there were reported 3 cases of gang riots in the municipality, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD). He estimated that in a population of 10, only 1 percent are affected by gangsterism.

Despite the tiny statistics, this remains a concerning issue. These minorities should be afforded equal consideration with the rest of the populace. It is dangerous to stroll around the neighborhood, knowing that children my age could potentially harass us. Considering what may have led them to behave as criminals or exiles is also lamentable. We have thus addressed why minorities are entering these organizations.

Hinampas asserted that the household is the initial cause. Family issues, such as divorce, conflict, and lack of attention, contribute to the behavior of gang

Scoop by

richard YNAYAN

At the same time, some street vendors by the numbers 63 outbreaks of foodborne diseases affecting students and teachers from 2005 to 2021 4354 hospitalizations 38 DEATHS

Letter to the Editors

Dear Editors,

Yours Truly,

Dionah Robles Student, 9 - Gold

Illiteracy is becoming increasingly prevalent these days. Not necessarily on illiteracy in reading or comprehension, but on illiteracy in media and information awareness.

Literacy is what brings us together. It is necessary to develop our reading and comprehension literacy, but it is our interpretation that is important.

As a student, I’m concerned that not everyone in our community is practicing their literacy. Issues that must be addressed, principles or views that must be implemented, or respect for one’s own perspective.

I’ve witnessed several instances on social media when individuals quarrel and generate misconceptions. People who can read are not always able to understand, particularly among the youth.

Do students apply their literacy skills beyond the classroom? Is reading and writing in a known language enough to consider one educated, especially regarding social issues? I want my peers to fully understand, not just rely on books. What you’ve read in text may not be the same as mine, but literacy comes in the dependence with our own perspective and I want to see

people trust theirs. “As long as people fully comprehend what they read, literacy can expand greatly. . Reading has power, but understanding what you’ve read has much more. It is not just one’s efforts that are accountable for one’s literacy, but also for the masses. Fighting illiteracy is a losing battle if we don’t work together. One’s understanding has the power to influence another’s understanding. We need to develop an independence in which we can trust ourselves while also trusting our environment to respond in a way that we can be proud of. In our world, information is boundless; let us make it count by beginning with ourselves.

members. This encourages them to reach out to children from damaged homes, forming these groups.

Children who are unable to attend school are prone to join groups, he added. Without the appropriate support and integrity that a solid education provides, minors will always seek to join a group. Children do not know whether it is positive or harmful as long as they always want to feel like they belong. Parents enroll their children in school so that they can develop a sense of belonging. To socialize and establish a foundation for independence. However, gang-affiliated minors do not have this privilege. They are not educated. No adults supervise them. They are not guided; they are neglected.

Children require direction. Observing people my age making poor choices motivates me to follow my peers closely. It is not a question of ‘what’ they did, but rather ‘why’ they did it and understanding that not all privileges granted to children are equal. People must speak out against gangsterism. Preventive measures must be taken. In gangs, truancy is a common practice among minority members. They abuse their freedom of choice by not attending school and disregarding education. It is fortunate that Sta. Cruz National High School is adopting proactive measures to address this

Expand the learning space

We consider the classroom to be our second home. This is where our knowledge and values are shaped. This is where we cultivate learning in order to better ourselves. Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS) advocates for face-to-face arrangements for more than 4,000 junior and senior high school students. As expected, problems were evident. There needs to be more classrooms for students. There are 57 classrooms in the junior high, 28 in the senior high, two makeshift spaces in the Senior High School campus. not utilized at SHS.

The demise of classrooms was not solely a long-overdue inconvenience for us but for the entire country. Former Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones stated that “basic education learners do not stop increasing every year” and that the DepEd will attempt to supply classrooms for an anticipated 22 million pupils in public schools this year.

According to the Supply Officer of Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS), the LGU has the authority, and the Department of Education is not responsible for constructing additional classrooms in said school. Unexpected catastrophes, such as earthquakes, prompted the expenditure of millions of dollars on a single structure. Following LDRRM’s decision, a particular structure was

This demonstrates that a significant number of students exclude themselves from school for reasons such as pity for their surroundings. Therefore, it is a challenge for instructors to enhance their instructional methods to maintain positive relationships with students.

Throughout our existence, the number of students will continually increase. Undeniably, we cannot promptly provide our students with adequate classroom facilities and can only offer what is currently available.

Regardless of the skepticism surrounding our situation, these students will acquire the same number of lessons. We must utilize what is available and become more appreciative. We must teach these young people, regardless of their origin, the value of education.

Grade 9- Bonifacio

Grade 7-Grapes

Jenny

Grade 11-Hornbill

“ Balancing students’ cravings and budget with their health and safety is crucial when it comes to consuming street food outside school campuses.

A glimpse of spectacular

SPOTS ON

Drowning in the Sea of Clouds Wander

Atop the peak lies before you a sea of wispy clouds, caressed by the wind and lit by the sun. Through ebb and flow, these clouds come and go. The skies are ever-changing from our view down below.

Mountains are the pride and joy of our municipality that is Santa Cruz. Everybody and their mother have hiked, or at the least, have talked about walking in one of the many peaks of this humble town. Of course, there is everybody’s favorite, Mount Apo. But have you tried the other mountains in the vicinity? One of these mountains is Mount Loay, whose popularity amongst hikers (both veterans and rookies) is increasing.

The popularity of Mt. Loay climbed steadily during the COVID-19 pandemic when everyone was desperate for something to take their minds off things as the lockdown drowned the population in boredom.

But as with all things, it wasn’t always this way.

The peak we have heard so much about, just like everything else that gets popular, had its humble beginnings.

Before the peak was open to hikers, it was home to rural communities— humble folk with their farming and husbandry upbringings.

The tourism industry decided to open the spot as a possible hiking destination. This, along with the other nearby peaks, was done to get the public’s interest off their couches and towards hiking and other outdoor activities.

While the mountain is seen as a walk in the park by the more seasoned climbers, it is a fantastic way for newbies to get familiar with what the regular hikers do for fun.

While Mt. Loay may seem like another peak, what with all the other mountains near Santa Cruz, it is still a testament to how a location can bring something else to the plate despite the sea of everything else promising a similar experience. Something may look like another at the surface, but if you get to know it inside, you will discover how unique everything truly is.

a leap to the highest peak

Marching to a trail leading through bushes and mossy forest, slowly ascending to the summit. Lit a lamp for a little warmth, while some was stupefied by the arctic cold. A rest for the night and a big day tomorrow.

Boulders of rough edges and blinding surfaces. A rush of mixed emotions were felt by Mr. Neri A. Quitua, as he hiked through the trail of the boulder face. Together with the rescue team of Brgy. Sinoron, they hiked Mt. Apo to assist seven doctors from Manila last September 25-27, 2023.

The urge to be alert and careful of every step you take, and the fear of slipping in the glossy boulders surface.

“It was a dreamy place to be,” he said while picturing out the scenery while marching in the trail in his mind.

“Nindot nga palibot, tin-aw ug maklaro ang mga view sa ubos.

Kung Sta. Cruz trail ang gia-gian makita nimo sa boulder ang lapad nga parti sa Kapatagan, halayo nga bukid sa Calinan, Davao side, Digos, Cotabato , ug bisan paman ang peak sa Mt. Matutum ug ang side sa Sta. Cruz,” he described the place as if looking at it in a bird’s eye view. Seeing mountains while hiking one, and looking far in the horizons of the ocean.

They can also enjoy bit of treats from black berries thorny shrubs and have a face to face with the sulfur stones.

“Ug muabot ang higayon o panahon willing ko nga mobalik didto, sa tanan trail paingon sa Mt. Apo ang Sta. Cruz trail ra ang naay pinakanindot nga trail,” having fun in the midst of a challenge.

Davao’s most famous and prominent mountain ranges, at the same time,

An all-out experience, from climbing through rigorous mountain trails to a chance of chasing sunrise and standing in awe before a scenic view. To fully grasp the importance of conserving the environment while having fun seeing all the sights in Mt. Apo.

“I recommend hiking Mt. Apo through the boulder face. Being the highest mountain in the country, inig musaka ka sa Mt. Apo lahi rajud imong bation,” he added. Truly

Editor: Remie Alvarez

Writer: Jama Sariol

ON SPOT spectacular SC Wander Rush

seeing a glimpse of the everyday life of the people and lush rainforests, geysers, hot springs, sulfur pillars, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and other natural wonders.

A sense of fulfillment awaits climbers at one of the three peaks of Apo Sandawa. A delectable treat lies ahead of adventurous souls while strolling up the mountain trail, with its plumpness and purplish tint with the luscious flavor melts on the taste buds.

A step or two pushes the boat through its powdery sand, wild waves, and panoramic sea views. From beaches to aquatic creatures and sunken treasures. These are plenty of things to enjoy with pleasure.

Be it the craving for the greenery lands, the picturesque rosy hue of the morning sky above the clouds, or the arriving turbulent waves of the sea. A culture and resources-rich town.

Truly a place of wonders.

Saliducon Cave: A Deep Dive

Carved by the hands of nature, dark chambers await below the surface. Braving the entrance, you are filled with awe. Spacious compartments embraced by darkness lie before you. You stand there, speechless and embroidered with astonishment.

Santa Cruz is known for its mighty mountain peaks – such as Mt. Loay, Mt. Dinor, and of course, Mt. Apo. But going down below the surface, not many people recognize the municipality for its vast cave systems.

You should know that Saliducon Cave is currently the only nearby cave system, so if you have been itching to try out spelunking or cave-diving, this cave system is for you.

When you first arrive at the cave after a 15-minute trek, you will be greeted by the cave’s tiny mouth or entrance. While this might seem scary at first, especially if you are claustrophobic, you will be in for a treat once you squeeze past the hole. Inside the cave is a vast, spacious chamber that will take your breath away.

Take it all in, as the cave does not offer much. But it is different from what the cave has, which is so important. While the opportunity to explore an underground environment is impressive, what it means to locals is so valuable.

The locals receive help from the cave as the tourists it attracts help support and empower local businesses. The local government reached out to the locals to help them manage the cave. The locals were also made into guides to help the visitors. They also tend to the caving gear that is rented out to the spelunkers.

Saliducon Cave has a limited amount to offer compared to other cave systems, but it is still worth a visit if you want to try caving. Moreso, the cave empowers the locals of the area. Trying something new and stepping out of your comfort zone never hurts.

Rough but Exquisi te

With the gentle trickle of the river and the scent of petrichor in the air, a jaggedly beautiful rock face calls the Pilan River it is home. It has made its way into the dreamscapes of many. As the river flows on and on, the formation stays ever-constant.

Located in Pilan River, Sinoron, this rock formation has attracted the eyes of the public with its unique appearance. Sights like this are a rarity in Santa Cruz, and it is one of the reasons why this specific rock formation has garnered much attention.

words aren’t enough to describe the place.

Mr. Neri A. Quitua encourages mountain climbers to add the Apo Sandawa’s boulder face trail, and that they should try and see it for themselves. Leaving us with a reminder to not be fooled by small steps that appear insignificant. They’re the tools for quietly shifting viewpoints, gradually scaling mountains, and drastically altering lives.

Nature never fails to amaze us and capture our eyes. The countless beauties that our world provides are a testament to that. This rock formation is unique as it contributes to our municipality’s diversity of natural tourist spots. It gives people from around the country a reason to visit us. It shows what Santa Cruz has to offer.

They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder; to the ignorant, it may just look like a wall of rocks, but to the people who know how to appreciate things apart from face value, the rock formation is one of the most stunning views in all our municipality. It is a testament to how nature is the greatest artist.

Bring Forth and Sprout

by jama SARIOL

In a room full of people, one is destined to win the hearts of the masses, and he, who happened to be fit for the role, took the reins. His head held up high; a noticeable glint was seen in his demeanor.

The quest for youth empowerment brought Sibol Sta. Cruz to life. Just like any other organization, it started as what its name suggests, a sprout.

“Youths are dreamers and doers in nature, but the challenge is not to dream only about ourselves but to dream to others about Sta. Cruz and the Nation,” Jerry Louise Huerbana said in Visayan language.

The goal of SIBOL is to “instill the culture of good governance, community building and volunteerism in the municipality,” as it is noticeable that the culture of ‘Bayanihan’ is lacking.

Jerry Louise Huerbana and Santa Cruz National High School (SCNHS) alums started a small donation drive for the selected medical front liners, barangay residents and Sta. Cruzians affected by the pandemic. As if autumn came through

between the loud crunch and crisp of the leaves he stepped through.

To avoid the collapse of the walls of this organization, they’ve arranged a donation drive, finding support from possible donors and sponsors. The Local Government Unit (LGU) noticed the organization’s efforts, and SIBOL received funding from the LGU and other private sectors.

As if spring befell upon them, a fruitful reward. Through the Youth Organization Program, they could register the organization under the National Leaf Commission of the Malacañang.

Programs including local-wide donation drives, ABAKADA balik-eskwela Mindanao’s donation of school supplies in Tibolo, needs assessments at Saliducon Elementary School, and book reading activities in Tuban were carried out by the group, as well as a Christmas celebration and more youth-oriented events.

“We always ask something from the government; it’s about time for us to

ask ourselves what we can do for our government; what can we do for our community,” Jerry stated.

Like an ant colony on bright summer days, we must help each other prosper and aid our nation.

“Ang output, ang success, ang bunga sa imong kugi, dili mana pwede nga successful dayon ta,” he added. To succeed, we must go through the process of experiencing the seasons that comes with it.

“Being woke comes from a place of privilege, usahay sa kalisod dili nata kahuna-huna nga tabangan ang atong nasod ug ang atong isigka-ingon. But it should not be voluntary, as it is our moral responsibility, to help Sta. Cruz and to help our Nation as Filipino citizens,” he emphasized that as the future of the Nation we must do our part.

The Rare Centerpiece

by remie ALVAREZ

“Flowers carry on dialogues with him through the graceful bending of their stems and the harmoniously tinted nuances of their blossoms,” quoted by Auguste Rodin. Rare as it can bewitch one to focus on it when placed as a centerpiece, and even with its distinct quality, it can blend with other ornaments.

Jerry Louise Huerbana always speaks his mind, and now, he stood there proud, entrancing the crowd, glowing with the willpower and determination to conquer every stage.

Proving himself worthy of applause, after a decade, he became the first president of the student council of Ateneo de Davao University that, came from the province of Sta. Cruz. His unique personality and leadership abilities made him stand out even in the crowd.

Years of hard work and perseverance paid off, as he received the leadership award for his active participation in the

school organizations.

“Padayon lang. Do not compare yourself and your progress to (or from) other people’s progress.” He said as he went and trailed on his past experiences.

He wants to instill in the minds of the youth that we shouldn’t strive to be better than anyone else but rather to be better than who we used to be.

Now 23, Jerry is a proud product of his alma mater, Sta. Cruz National High School (SCNHS) and Sta. Cruz Elementary School (SCCES). Looking back, his growth didn’t end after he graduated with a Bachelor of Mass Communication. Currently a fourth-year student at Cor Jesu College and The Youth focal person in Sta. Cruz Youth Development office, after his term in the Sangguniang Bayan as a Junior Paralegal.

“Just focus on your goal and be committed, work hard, and you’ll reach your dreams. And of course, without divine intervention, without God and ourselves, it won’t matter,” Jerry said.

It is truly a rare centerpiece, as we all go through life phases at different places; a lot may go adrift, and only the undaunted will find their way. You don’t deserve the rose if you are afraid to be pricked with the thorns.

Into the Unknown

by fiona LORICO

Honest gazes and curiosity haze. A golden phase filled with nurturing, learning, and growth. Eyes asking, how’s? And why’s? Till answers come by. Days full of daydreams and wonders about what the real world seems like. Driven by fantasy and freedom, not knowing what the world had become.

Youth is a period of uncertainty.

Neither a child nor adult, with worries of what it’s going to be—the backbone of the nation with the potential to make a better version. Empowering them comes with responsibilities to help them unleash their best abilities and comprehend their roles and identities. Bridging literacy gaps and developing programs to cater to knowledge needs is already a step in the right direction.

Youth empowerment goes beyond formal education. Acknowledging efforts would lift spirits and encourage them to face challenges and take the reins. It transitions from

immaturity to being capable of handling themselves and making decisions, imprinting confidence, wisdom, and independence.

There has been a lot of discussion regarding how teenagers should prepare for adult life. And no doubt, it is critical to prepare kids for independence while they still have the safety net of home, parents, and teachers to guide and discipline them when necessary.

It can be difficult and heartbreaking for teenagers thrown into the pit of adult life too soon. Ascertain things can only be learned by experience.

The view is limited from the perspective of a seventeen-yearold. The goal is to thrive and succeed, going above and beyond capabilities. So, if someone asks, “Are you ready to face the real world?” we won’t be, but we’ll show them how it’s done once we get there.

We’re already leading characters in our real lives- the ones we are meant to be living right now.

Like the seasons, you bask under the heat and pressure of working forefront or stay seated in a corner with coldness creeping in.

SAFE SPACE

Self-expression provides a safe place to each on of us, an opportunity to turn rage in slow graceful movements, happiness in cursive bending of pens and sadness in the splashes and strokes of blues.

Every person expresses themselves differently, to freely transfer energy from thoughts and feelings into another form.

Move and Groove

Panting for air, as her body moves with every beat of the music from the booming speakers. Althea Jayne A. Embudo, a Grade 12 student found comfort in dancing.

“Although I may not show emotions through facial expressions, I express my it through some certain moves that indicates how I want to express those emotions and to show how passionate I am about dancing,” she said with a spark of passion burning in her soul.

Dancing gave her a chance to relate and connect with others. It drove her to completely step out of her comfort zone and it rewarded her with a third place in PreTertiary Solo-Modern Standard Category in the 36th Araw ng Davao : Davao City Dancesport Competition.

Paints and paper

The vibrant splashes of vermillion caught her eye as she painted the intensity of her emotions. Renzel Kate Leal, a Grade 12 student found peace in the strokes of colors in her canvas.

“It was all out of boredom during the pandemic, and I never thought I would love and try painting myself,” she said with a paint brush in her hands.

She was able to discover a part of her, with her medium as acrylic paints and a fragile glass. These things were able to hold the weight of her feelings and it never fails to fascinate her every time.

Understanding your self-identity and authentic self-expression can be a great journey towards a sense of freedom and connection. When you express yourself, you share your unique perspective with the world. And in turn, the world gets to know you better. This would also help you realize self-existent and innate talents.

A way of sharing and connecting with others while having growth of your own. Stepping out of your comfort zone is a good start, wandering off track is okay and the only thing that matters is that you’d still find your way.

by remie ALVAREZ

An urge of femininity as the dress sits upon her body, soft as petals like a blossoming rose in a flower bed. Hugging her body right harmoniously joins with a breeze to lift her spirit high.

Now 16, Roy Earl Kyle Carbajosa made Kyle Carbajosa her icon. She’s a transwoman undergoing both medical and social transitioning. She is a beauty whenever she graces the school campus in her heels.

“I prefer wearing what fits me, rather than comfortability, and I don’t usually keep up with the trend, but more on what fits me and styles that are

giving.” In contrast to the following mainstream, she describes her style as authentic.

The school hallways used to be her runways, but now with stricter school rules prohibiting nonbinary and trans individuals from wearing clothes of their choice, she was saddened by the sudden changes in her wardrobe.

“As it is exclusive only to males and females at birth, it’s not giving equality to non-binary and trans individuals. If we can make our policy, why not make it more inclusive?” Being woke of the rights as part of the LGBTQ+ society, she wishes for a more welcoming environment that would genuinely put importance on equality.

The sign of equality is a decoration when those who are needed to be treated as equal are oppressed with their rights.

“I feel my womanhood when wearing my preferred fits. I feel empowered and confident.” She proudly says with a smile painted on her lips.

Students will be known as part of the institution if they wear their respective uniforms. Even Kyle is willing to abide by the school’s rules but wishes for some consideration.

“It is a part of my identity, as Kyle Carbajosa wouldn’t be Kyle Carbajosa without slaying or dressing up.” As roses don’t bloom hurriedly, like any masterpiece, it takes time to blossom. She’s painted with the hue of a rose and thorns carved by years of shaping herself to become what she is.

Caught in a Love Bug

by daffnie BARCEBAL

They claim that your world stops when you fall in love, and you can only see the person you love. Head over heels, as though caught in the web of a love bug.

A mystery to many left some people in envy. Public display of affection inside school premises belongs to wrong but feels so right. As dating someone isn’t restricted, hugging, kissing, holding hands, touching, and many more ways of showing affection inside a respectable institution is inappropriate.

High school is an era of growth and blooming, a relatable phase of young adulthood. Most high school students are still relatively young, aged 14 to 18. Therefore, it can be simple for other students and teachers to perceive PDA between two 14-year-olds as inappropriate and to publicly display affection in broad daylight in the middle of school hallways is inappropriate.

The school understands youngsters may have genuine emotions of attachment for one

another. A little hand-holding or a hug is nice, but nothing more.

Couples should be aware of the boundaries of their actions and know how to control them as children getting a glimpse of their efforts would think it’s okay, but it’s not. Being overly affectionate can be offensive to many people, though a couple caught up in the moment may not know their actions are despicable.

Cases of teenage pregnancy skyrocketed among Filipino learners and a tremendous number of scandals kept coming out one after another. It has caused class disruptions, worried parents, and ruined school reputations. To be labeled as someone lewd and indecent while being caught in the act is truly shameful.

Public displays of affection are becoming a growing problem and offense. There is a thin line between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. As students, we must be cautious of what we do.

A soul's quest to be fearless

by kline MANAPOL

Words carved deep within their souls, it was a death with a thousand cuts—a girl who surrounded herself with friends wishing her life to end.

The chit-chats were silenced with the gush of red liquid from the wrists. Consumed by the voices of the monsters inside their heads, the ending was entirely predictable.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people aged 15-24.

An existing problem that everybody acted mindlessly about. The “you’re overreacting,” and the loud whispers of shaming and chatter inside the four walls of the classroom led thousands and even millions of students to the corner begging for mercy.

A stab after a stab, another wound within scars, so a gentle reminder to

think before you speak; minds haywire with thoughts of despair will most definitely fall into the pit of doom, and to get out is never easy.

Depression is not a joke, and no other mental illness is. Triggering factors of mental health problems include academic pressure, social pressures, bullying, over-scheduling, and complex peer relationships. Plenty of schoolrelated issues cause students to struggle with their mental health. Getting lost is okay, but never finding your way back isn’t.

The alarming rate of increasing suicidal attempts of students is a threat to parents, family members, and society. The spark started during the pandemic and continues to escalate sharply. The lack of access to mental health care

for young Filipinos makes it critical to combat the social stigma around seeking mental health support and to provide that support.

Words have the power to break and make someone. May the authorities use their words to help and lead awareness programs and mental health prevention

activities because all we need is a brave soul to stand up and start a change within themselves because dwelling in bad dreams results in doing bad things.

The sign of equality is a decoration when those who are needed to be treated as equal are oppressed with their rights

A

New AIra

Opening doors to endless possibilities

by mikylla MALOON

rtificial Intelligence

(AI) has been creating a name for several years. Ringing a bell in the technology industry, but surprisingly its potential effect on education is only beginning to be realized. As the world continues to make development and innovation in technology, what possibilities could we unlock by fully incorporating AI into our education system?

“Society influences the development of technology, and that development influences society,” Blair Brian A. Torres, Santa Cruz National Senior High School Empowerment Technology Educator, said. Technology and society are deeply intertwined, influencing each other in countless ways.

Seeing AI in the future of education is truly promising. As it has become a buzzword in students for some time now, it proved that it offers something in the future of education. The future is here, and it’s bright.

AI tools, such as Photomath, Gauthmath, ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Quillbot, can potentially transform the students’ educational experience.

“It provides learners’ writing improvement, language

Ease-Hub Knowledge straight off the screen

by jama SARIOL

Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS) students of Santa Cruz National Senior High School face unique challenges regarding learning materials. They often rely on primary sources, articles, and other structured learning materials not readily available in a single book or publication. With the need for learning materials, quality education is significantly affected.

On the 2nd of March, 2023, Electronic Humanities Books (E-Hub) was launched. The project was conceptualized in 2021 and proposed in 2022.

“It took us time to do the project because we need an IT to do and there are conflicts with our schedule,” HUMSS Strand Coordinator Maurice Dence Bacaling said.

E-Hub is a webpage that aims to cater to the needs of every Humanities student. This page provides access to many digital learning resources, including e-books, journals, articles, and research papers. In HUMSS, students have easy and unrestricted access to educational materials that are essential and useful.

Maurice Dence Bacaling, Rannie Jhon Taborada, and Patricia Baan initiated this innovation project together with the support of the Santa Cruz National High School Secondary School Principal II, Ma’am Josephine A. Aragon, and Education Program Supervisor for Araling Panlipunan/ HUMSS Leonora Liza Dacillo.

E-Hub can access multimedia content; many e-books include videos, audio, recordings, and images, a new face of the reading experience. It made learning more

accessible and convenient, with the ability to access the webpage anywhere.

“It is helpful for me as a student, especially in complying with academic tasks. It improves my reading skills and comprehension, which is useful in academics. It also motivates me to read more because it offers easier access to your desired books,” said Era Mae Palanca, a grade 12 HUMSS student.

Other students can also benefit from this webpage. E-Hub is not only focusing on humanities and social sciences. It offers a wide array of learning materials that even Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students can use to accomplish their school activities.

“Ma’am Dacillo was proposing to make E-Hub accessible around Davao del Sur or even other regions,” Bacaling said.

E-Hub offers a lot in shaping a student’s intellect, which makes it a valuable resource.

Home of unlimited books for those with curious looks. A library without walls and accessible to all. With one click at a time, E-Hub provides a world of knowledge waiting to be seen on your screen.

learning, research assistance, and accessibility,” Torres said.

Santa Cruz National High School Teacher

ICT Coordinator Leslie B. Veneracion added that teachers could benefit from it.

“Every week, teachers come to school and work for 8 hours. But, with the teacher’s massive workload, 8 hours is not enough,” she said.

AI simplifies and automates standard tasks that were once time-consuming and tedious for teachers, helping them become more effective and improving student engagement.

However, students become more reliant on these tools, making a huge impact. The bright and promising future of AI in education is now seemingly fading.

“Not all given by AI are exactly correct. Always do double-check,” Veneracion said.

Fully incorporating AI into the education system is undoubtedly a challenging job. When AI is abused, it compromises the quality of education students deserve. When incorporating AI into our education system, ethical considerations are a must.

According to Torres, in navigating the use of AI tools ethically and responsibly, we must consider these four factors; privacy, consent,

The percentage of students utilizing AI in SCNHS

responsibility, and overreliance. Taking these factors into action mitigates potential risks.

Concerns arise on the full incorporation of AI in education. Do AIs replace human teachers?

Veneracion stated that Artificial intelligence would never replace the connection between teachers and students.

AI has the potential to transform education by making it more personalized, efficient, and effective. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, AI can help teachers and students achieve better learning outcomes and prepare for the challenges of the future. Although it has the potential to transform education in many positive ways, it is important to carefully consider concerns about biases and the role of human teachers in the learning process.

Another era arises. Technology rapidly changes and modernizes the world, empowering humanity with knowledge and insight. Despite the challenges and concerns, let us keep the door open to the endless possibilities AI offers. As we continue to explore the options of AI, we must take note of the consequences that come with rapid advancements. It needs extreme caution and responsibility to take steps toward a technologically advanced, socially just, and

iRoadmap: Eyeing for career path

by mikyllla MALOON

Choosing a career can be an overwhelming and daunting task for young learners. The pressure to succeed in shaping the future and making the right choice of career path is incredibly draining. Will an innovation like the iRoadmap help learners eye what lies ahead?

iRoadmap is a project designed to provide grade 10 students with an in-depth understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. With the help of technology, students undergo a video-based career orientation and an IT-based career assessment to lead them to their career aspirations and skills required to achieve their long-time goals.

This project is anchored from the Republic Act 11206, also known as the “Secondary School Career Guidance and Counseling Act.” An act that aims to implement a National Secondary Schools Career Guidance and Counseling Program (CGCP) in all public and private secondary education institutions to ensure the learners’ total development.

Spearheaded by Santa Cruz National High School Secondary School Principal II, Ma’am Josephine A. Aragon, this project is made possible with the Continuous Improvement (CI) Team, Ronald A. Diaz, Maurice Dence Bacaling, James B. Jamero, Boon Genesis A. Soria, and Beverly Santos.

“Career choices are still challenging for young students,” said CI team leader Ronald Diaz.

During the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, grade 10 students did not undergo career orientation and career assessment. Making career choices much harder, resulting in shifting from one strand to another. In response to this problem, the school develops the iRoadmap to help students better decide what career

path to pursue.

Challenges come in every aspect of life, and the world of work is no exception. On the 7th of December 2022, the iRoadmap system was launched as part of the grade 10 students’ career guidance.

Diaz unraveled that the team encountered challenges during the implementation process, specifically with resources.

A milestone would only be as it is with its challenges. Later on, the school was able to source resources such as tablets and thermal printers were solicited from different donors.

For any student’s career journey, iRoadmap can tailor students’ experiences to their unique needs and interests, making this project a fantastic asset.

“Dako kaayong tabang sa akoa ang iRoadmap. Sauna undecided pa gyud ko kung unsa akoa kuhaon na strand. Tungod sa iRoadmap, akong nadiskobre kung aha diay ko dapat na strand base sa akoa mga interest og kakayahan,” said Rosemarie Sumampong, a grade 10 student.

Your path to success lies in the most crucial decision-making you’ll ever make. Everyone wants to succeed, but only those

genuinely prudent enough do. The future is always uncertain, but that doesn’t stop us from eyeing what lies ahead. With tools like the iRoadmap, we can stay on the cloud 9 of our career and ensure we are still moving in the right direction. Let’s keep our eyes laid on the horizon of success.

REASONS OF SHIFTING

10%

Influence by friend struggles to subjects

30%

Unqualified for grades (atleast 85) for Science, English, and Math.

New Sanitary Landfill:

To address waste dilemma

by ellaine CORTEZANO

Up until this day, waste is still a growing concern. Waste disposal is a significant problem in developing countries, which includes the Philippines. Is it worth sacrificing nature for a lower cost or investing in promising projects even if it comes at a higher price?

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Santa Cruz once has this open dumpsite at Barangay Matutungan. It was later turned down by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), for it is prohibited under Republic Act (RA) 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

Open dumping is the most common method of waste disposal due to its low cost. But it negatively affects the

environment and the people surrounding it. According to a study by Singh et al., 2020, open dumping emits toxic gases and odors that can cause respiratory problems for nearby people.

“When I arrived in this office, this open dumpsite had already been closed by the DENR,” Environment and Natural Resources Management Division (ENRMD) Head Alan B. Angub said.

In the meantime, LGU-Santa Cruz is utilizing the Residual Containment Area (RCA) at Barangay Matutungan. RCA is a temporary storage site dedicated to the segregated residual wastes from the 18 barangays of the Municipality of Santa Cruz.

The eagerness of the municipal government bodies led to a progressive environmental state of the municipality.

“LGU-Santa Cruz wanted to address this situation, we are now in a process, and we have this approved budget of 22 million for one cell in a sanitary landfill,” Angub added. With each cell lasting a maximum of 10 years, the ENRMD office is planning another budget to keep this worthwhile project for generations.

Sanitary landfill is significantly different from open dumpsites. Unlike open dumpsites, sanitary landfills are professionally engineered to prevent environmental contamination.

It is planned

Norm with a good reason

Gone are the days when every financial and business transaction requires a paper trail, paperless transactions have gained significant traction in recent years with its unambiguous effect on the environment.

As the world goes into total lockdown during the pandemic, paper plays a vital role as a contemporary approach to education. With modular learning, learners frequently print out materials to study offline. This approach allows the learners to learn at their own pace, but it’s contributing to compelling paper waste.

“Companies use paper as part of their workflow and transactions for legal processes and compliance with internal and external standards,” InfoTrends Group Director Randy Dazo said. Paper usage is also prevalent in the business world. Despite the increasing trend of digital communication, many companies still rely on paper for transactions. This vast amount of paper consumption contributes to deforestation and dramatically increases the cost of operations.

According to TheWorldCounts, a website that was created to raise awareness of important global challenges, paper accounts for around 26% of total waste at landfills. Paper undergoes anaerobic decomposition, a process in which bacteria break down organic matter when sent to landfills, significantly producing methane. This potent greenhouse gas plays a role in climate change and air pollution, posing a considerable threat.

Forests are essential ecosystems. It purifies the air, filter the water, regulate the climate, and provide

habitat for wildlife. But, the increased paper production poses risks to the world’s forests. From 2010 to 2060, the global consumption of pulp and paper and the amount of paper waste are expected to double.

The Philippines’ paper industry also plays a huge role not only in the country’s growth of the economy but also in the country’s waste generation. According to research by Phares P. Parayno, Ph.D., and Mitzi Gay M. Bustamante, waste paper is the second most produced solid waste in the Philippines, with 19% of the total municipal solid waste. This problem has been around and kept on tailing humanity for hundreds of years, but the question is – When could this end?

Since the dawn of civilization, waste has been a problem for humanity. As the population and industrialization rapidly increases, the situation has only worsened. However, with technological advancement and the growing trend of paperless transactions, hope exists to help mitigate this problem.

Paper production is a revolutionary process. It requires energy and resources, which significantly contributes to deforestation and pollution. Reducing paper consumption in transactions can help preserve the forest and trees and reduce carbon footprint. Going paperless is more convenient and efficient. With an internet connection and a device, transactions can be made quickly and easily anywhere. It is also secure for digital transactions can be encrypted and protected with passwords, unlike paper documents, which are vulnerable to loss, theft, and damage. The paperless transaction is an excellent candidate to mitigate humanity’s waste issue. It does not only help preserve the environment but can also help streamline business operations and reduce operation costs by eliminating paper-based processes. Humanity is far from completely eradicating this stubborn problem, but it can be mitigated with constantly evolving trends and technology. It’s time to step up and make paperless transactions the norm, and with a good reason.

substantially and managed. Although it costs higher, the price is truly reasonable and unarguable.

The municipal sanitary landfill will soon rise at Sitio Kiyawit, Zone II, Santa Cruz Davao del Sur. Documents are now handed to the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) for confirmation and processing.

“Most likely, within this quarter, the sanitary landfill construction will be in place,” Angub concluded.

Sanitary landfills have become a gamechanging response to the world’s waste dilemma in an era where waste management and environmental sustainability are the top priorities. Say goodbye to traditional dumpsites that pose significant environmental

and health risks. Modern sanitary landfills are paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

A greener and safer future will soon arise at the Municipality of Santa Cruz. The issue of waste disposal here in our municipality is slowly given a solution. A lot of problems concerning waste are yet to be solved. Thus, working hand in hand as a community we can provide immediate actions to major problems, building a much more promising and brighter world for future generations.

Scorched by mikylla MALOON

Course of action

The scorching heat of summer is undeniably unbearable. With summer upon us, another challenge has risen, the extreme heat.

Not long ago, on March 12, the latest advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) forecast Davao City’s heat index is at 36 degrees Celsius, classified as “extreme caution.” Davao City being our neighboring community, heat is deeply felt by the students and teachers of Santa Cruz National High School.

According to Pagasa, a heat index of 52 degrees Celsius and above raises the probability of people experiencing heat strokes, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses. These are detrimental to the students and the school’s teaching and non-teaching forces’ health and well–being.

Janelle Umalay Tahud, a grade 10 student, said that she often has headaches due to the rising temperature, which ultimately distracts her from listening to her teachers during discussions.

Angel Buquia, a grade 11 STEM student, completely agrees and said, “Maglisod ko og tuon kay ang focus nako kay sa kaigang.”

Three studies conducted separately by Simmons et al., 2008; Gaoua et al., 2011; and Schlader et al., 2015, have shown that summer heat can affect student learning because high temperatures negatively affect cognitive abilities. Another study by Goodman et al., 2018, attests that hotter school days reduce learning, with extreme heat particularly damaging. More significant effects are seen for low-income and minority students.

The Department of Education (DepEd) has always been at the forefront as we

navigate through these difficult times, ensuring that the education of young learners is not compromised. During the onslaught of Covid-19, they devised alternative delivery modes (ADMs), allowing us to learn even at home. With the new problem arising, how can DepEd ensure its commitment to quality education even in adversity?

Dated April 20, 2023, DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa said that DepEd issued a memorandum to public and private schools reminding principals and school heads that they have the authority and responsibility to suspend in-person classes and switch to ADMs if it is sweltering, already affecting the health of the learners and teachers.

In an interview with Ma’am Josephine Aragon, Santa Cruz National High School’s Secondary School Principal II, “If the temperature is high, as a school principal, I am always on the health of the students and of course on the teachers. I can immediately suspend classes for that one.” considering a unanimous decision from the district supervisor, MDRRM coordinator, and the school itself.

Regardless of the weather or other challenges that may arise in the future, the priority should be to ensure that students can learn and progress in a safe and healthy environment.

If the temperature is so high that it risks students’ and teachers’ health and well-being, then canceling classes and switching to ADMs are the best course of action.

Davao Weather History

Editor: Ace Arquillano

DAVRAA: Bucod bags bronze in Men’s Arnis

by ethan MAGALONA

Albert Bucod seized the bronze medal in men’s secondary arnis after going head-to-head with Mati City’s athlete, Christian Armelia in a nail-biter match at Tagum City Gymnasium during the 2023 Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) Meet, last April 2023.

Bucod set up a fake snap strike in the last round which Armelia fell and gave Albert the opening to land a solid strike through a thrust in the left chest, sealing the victory in their quarterfinals match.

Bucod started off with great footwork on the court, dodging several attacks from Armelia.

Armelia countered with aggressive combinations from left to right shoulder strikes, dominating and winning the first round with a tally 1-2.

Bucod changed the course of the fight to his path in the second round as he recovered through raining Armelia with a torso and leg thrust combination which led to a halt after Armelia experienced a slight pain on his shoulders. Mati City athlete endured and decided to return and continue the fight.

Armelia rallied to a late comeback attempt in the second round with leg strikes but the defense of Bucod stood up, snatching round two with a score of 3-2.

Albert kept the momentum entering the third and deciding round as he dominated through his footwork partnered with left-to-right eye poke combinations which cemented his dominating performance with a score of 3-2.

In the last round, Bucod did everything to capitalize on the division’s fate in his hands, making every incredible play possible as he showed unstoppable footwork and made great combinations of left and right eye pokes and left-right chest thrusts.

“Grateful kaayo ko kay nidaog ko ba naka bronze pod ko kay sa 10 ka division apil ko sa top 3 og malipayon ko kay nasuklan jud akong kahago og gibuhat nako ang tanan” Bucod said.

DavSur vs Mati City

round 1 1 - 2

round 2 3 - 2

round 3 3 - 2

SCNHS rhythmic gymnastics trio dominates at Provincial Meet

by jenoel EKNADAN

S anta Cruz National High School (SCNHS) Rhythmic Gymnastics team reigned supreme, nabbing five gold, four silver, and three bronze medals on different apparatus during the Provincial Meet at Hagonoy, Davao del Sur, on March 19, 2023.’

The dominating trio, Jovy Xyla Padilla, Hera Vita Padilla, and Alex Zandra Abaquita, displayed a phenomenal, nearperfection execution of apparatus difficulty with a combination of leaps, balances, and handling, securing them a spot for DAVRAA qualification.

“Proud kaayo ko because first siya in the history na ang gymnastics, ang tulo

Quidato obliterates Barquez

by ace ARQUILLANO

Aiken Quidato of Unit IV delivered a bone-crunching 1-2 combination as he crushed the highly favored Kurt Barquez of Unit 1 in a sensational firstround knockout during the Provincial Athletic Meet at Hagonoy Gymnasium, Hagonoy, Davao del Sur, on March 19, 2023.

Quidato dominated the fight from the opening bell, ringing Barquez up with a jab that quickly became a punishing right straight.

The dominating fighter had done very little until the nerve-wracking right straight landed to the jaw and sneaked a scorching right hand to the rib as the finishing strike, Barquez went down to the canvas and surrendered the bout with

The ReturnBiggest

diri kay nipakyaw ug gold.”, SCNHS Coach Mary Beth S. Kinoc said. She added that the athletes were very determined and goal-oriented, and she always set the bar high for them. On the other hand, the team fell short

“Since wala pud nako nakuha ang bronze medal na almost gud kaayo nako nakuha, so somehow disappointed and sayang jud siya kaayo”, athlete Jovy Xyla Padilla said in an interview. Kinoc described their performance as almost perfect, and the athletes did their

less than 2 minutes in the opening round.

“Nindot ang dula ni Aiken because he won by round one knockout unya ni surrender ang kontra.”, coach Arjee M. Daño said. Barquez suffered the aftershock from the powerful hit by Quidato and immediately rushed to the clinic but rose to his feet a few minutes after the fight had ended.

“Lipay kayo ko kay na daog pero nabalaka sad ko sakong kontra kay giadto og clinic.”, Quidato said. The fight cemented Quidato’s position at the gold match and booked his ticket for the DAVRAA Meet at Tagum City.

Student-Athletes brace up for athletic meets

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the sports field worldwide, from canceling sports events to stopping athletes from participating and cowmpeting in different circumstances. It also affected the training and workouts of athletes for almost three years of suspension. Fortunately, pandemic restrictions have been lifted, and sports events are returning.

The Department of Education released Memorandum No. 5, series of 2023, known as the conduct of Division, Regional Meets, and the Palarong Pambansa. Sports events are coming back after almost three years of suspension.

Athletes of Santa Cruz National High School give their blood, sweat, and tears dedicating themselves to winning and aiming for gold medals to qualify for higher meets. It’s been ages since the last Athletic Meet was

held since the pandemic, and athletes are dedicated and motivated to come back to the meets.

Due to this, athletes in different fields of sports events intensify their training, setting the bar high and sacrificing their energy, sweat, and time to improve their skills to claim that spectacular honor of the victory.

Santa Cruz National High School Rhythmic Gymnastics coach Mary Beth S. Kinoc said in an interview that her gymnasts devote their time to training, learning the fundamentals, and discipline to win the event. Win or lose, injured or not. It is part of the game. Whatever it takes, you do your best to soar high. Believing in yourself through learning from your past experiences is fundamental to growth as an athlete. With strength, discipline, and determination, the championship is sure to come.

With strength, discipline, and determination, the championship is sure to come.

photo by: chely YANA

Graceful Powerhouse. The SCNHS rhythmic gymnastics trio mesmerizes at the provincial meet, showcasing their unraveled talent and precision.

photo by: eduardo EROY

Unstoppable Force. Quidato dominates the match, delivering a fierce performance that obliterates Barquez and solidifies his boxing prowess.

Diming fire: children must be motivated to engage sports

T he pandemic changed the course of the way we live, especially in the engagement of sports. The rising number of youth disengaging with these physical activities due to being stuck at home significantly changed our habits in exercising every day, especially with the lockdown that prevents us from going outdoors.

No matter how much we adore and worship sports, there needs to be more support to motivate us to attend sports activities because there are limited resources and a lack of funds. We can see it from the management of our Filipino Athletes.

Knowingly, youth have been born with a burning passion for discovering and engaging in sports. Still, with insufficient sports facilities and activities, the burning desire of a child will dim, making them lose their passion for sports. In our country, the Philippines, the average child cannot afford a sports clinic, which is disappointing.

The government and the organizations around the communities must run a sports

by jenoel EKNADAN

program, not limited to a single sport but to many sports. Supporting our Filipino youth will motivate them to engage in these activities and be a great asset to our community.

In 2018, the Department of Education surveyed students, showing that 0.001 percent showed interest in sports. It shows that the motivation of the youth to engage in sports activities is decreasing, calling it from “A need to do” to “It is just a game. It’s not that serious”.

Sports is more than just a game; it is the backbone of every Filipino. It creates friendships, and a source of pride, especially when an athlete achieves a glorious victory, from Manny Pacquiao’s boxing fights to Hidilyn Diaz’s Olympic Gold.

The parent’s role matters in developing the interests of children and youth. They nurture the interests of the youth, and putting sports one of their interests will be a great decision. Significantly it will develop them physically and mentally, knowing that sports will develop these two aspects that build them as human beings.

Overall, the need to motivate the youth is of great importance. Our community and our country will develop if we take actions to support and invest in our youth to engage in sports activities.

Gamers, arise

F inally, there is now a recognition of student-gamers in the field of E-Sports.

A newly organized E-Palarong Pambansa, an initiative by the government aiming to revolutionize the field of E-Sports in the country, creating opportunities for Filipino student-athlete to develop skills.

Yes, this is an excellent opportunity for the Youth to showcase their talents, knowing that the E-Sports industry is increasing, with technological advancements, expanding market, and quicker access, especially with streamers on different platforms encouraging the audience to engage in this field.

Looking upon the good side of it, are we aware enough of the potential risk? How can we mitigate potential concerns linking in this field?

The program is a win to everyone, but we must look upon the dark side of this field, knowingly that it is a two-edged sword.

Over the past few years, the usage of video games has grown by 10% every year and is still increasing. This poses a significant concern, especially with the possibility of life imbalance, focusing on playing games instead of prioritizing life skills. There are cases of video game addiction, which concerns parents, teachers, and others.

The need to teach student gamers fundamental life skills will mitigate such raised concerns. Instilling discipline to every aspiring participant will be the utmost priority to everyone. Also, every student must be constantly reminded always to remember to use their time wisely.

The program weighs more benefits than risk, but the need to overlook the worst scenario when we engage in this program to make this E-Palarong Pambansa an effective initiative to benefit Filipino students.

SPORTS FORUM

The last time we were unable to submit, especially in swimming. Our last participation occurred in 2016. After that, no more athletes were sent to the event because we could not train them due to a lack of training facilities, such as a swimming pool, and because the sport is expensive and requires expensive equipment, we could not send any athletes. This is the main reason we could not send athletes to sporting events.

Michael M. Villaret Swimming Coach

Frank by richard YNAYAN

Athlete’s mentality

Mindset is what separates good players from great players. The great players have that extra something, that extra layer of belief in themselves that allows them to push through when the going gets tough. it counts not just what you’ve got but how you use it.

The late Kobe Bryant said, “If you do not believe in yourself, no one will do it for you.”

You must go into every game with the confidence that you’re the best player on the field, that you’ll make the plays, and that you’ll come out on top. If you don’t believe you can win, you’re already defeated.

While natural talent and physical ability are essential, they are not the only factors determining success. Mental toughness, determination, and a will to win are essential ingredients in any champion’s recipe for success. Athletes who possess these qualities can push themselves harder, overcome obstacles, and ultimately achieve their goals. Those who lack qualities often fall short, no matter how much natural talent or physical ability they may have. In other words,

Instead of thinking about winning or losing, you should focus on what you need to do to perform your best, meaning visualizing yourself executing each movement flawlessly, or it might mean focusing on breathing evenly and staying relaxed.

Whatever works for you, the important thing is to keep your attention focused on the present moment so that you can be in the best possible frame of mind when the competition starts.

So, if you want to be a great player, it starts with having the right mindset. Believe in yourself and believe that you can be the best. That’s what it takes to be a champion.

How long has it been since we did not send athletes to sporting events where they had little chance of winning? What are your thoughts on the matter?

Only during the pandemic were we unable to send, but before that, most of the events were represented by our athletes here at Santa Cruz National High School, and that was before I was the sports coordinator. It was Ma’am Alair, so all of the events are being participated in by our school, and now because some events are no longer being offered by our division, which is why.

Cepora L. Batawan School PESS Coordinator

For the past two years, sports have been suspended due to the threat of COVID-19. This has had a negative effect on our students, with some of them reporting depressive, health, and anxious symptoms. Due to the twoyear interruption brought on by the pandemic, pupils have lost access to quality education.

As I have observed, we have won both minor and major awards. Therefore, commencing at the district level, Santa Cruz National High School has the most victories. Several students at the municipal level compete at the division level, which is now Davao Region Athletics Association at the regional level. Several Santa Cruz National High School students have also participated in the DAVRAA. However, they did not qualify for Palaro because only athletes who won gold would represent the region. But that’s a significant achievement already, being silver and bronze medalists. Even though we have limited time to train our potential athletes, they still achieve so much for the school. We will implement programs and activities that necessitate school-wide athletic participation during competitions. We are now beginning boxing practice, and we have prospective athletes who can help us train athletes to qualify in Palaro. This would be a great challenge for the coaches and the potential athletes.

Carl Deck C. Cortes District PESS Coordinator

Josephine A. Aragon, Secondary School Principal II

WITH US

RESILIENCE:

Domopoy conquers silver at DAVRAA

by ace ARQUILLANO

D avao del Sur’s Harvey Jayne Domopoy showed grit and determination but fell short in grabbing the gold medal in Taekwondo Kyurogi - Open Weight Category against Justine Salazar of Tagum City during the DAVRAA Meet at Gmall, Tagum City, on April 27, 2023.

Salazar dominated the first round with a combination of right and left kicks making Domopoy’s defense lose in the opening. Domopoy bounced back but failed as the round ended with a score of 0-2 in favor of Salazar.

Domopoy caught a side-to-side leg kick combination from Salazar added with a solid front-roundhouse kick in the second round.

The DavSur fighter tried to pull a comeback with a score of 0-2 but hopes shattered as Domopoy suffered an injury in her lower back which halted the fight and gave Salazar the gold while Domopoy settled with the silver.

Aim for Glory:

by arniel TORAYNO

Teodoro Petecio sharpens SCNHS athletes

As he was one of the spectators during the Municipal Meet, he offered training to the athletes as he saw a bright future and immense potential in becoming champions in the field of boxing.

Teodoro teaches from basics to techniques, soft and intensive workouts, aiming and setting that goal for the astounding Gold Medal to qualify for the prestigious Palarong Pambansa.

The doorway to a bright future is nigh, with blood, sweat, and tears as the athletes are determined and willing to learn from Petecio.

Proudly speaking, Teodoro said in an interview that he wanted to send boxers from Santa Cruz to the Philippine Boxing Team to give honor and glory to the motherland.

The line of success is solid as Nesthy Petecio’s light shines. Teodoro Petecio wants the boxers to have that bright legacy and endless motivation to fulfill their dreams.

Just as her daughter stated, “Walang hihinto hangga’t walang ginto”. There is a long way to go, and there will be victories and defeats, but we will unquestionably emerge victorious in the end.

ADDU Athletic Council initiates 2nd CAC Sports Clinic, SCAYO ensures on harnessing studentathletes’ skills

by mark ONG

Through the Santa Cruz Association of Youth Organizations (SCAYO) initiative, the Ateneo de Davao University College Athletics Council conducted the second year of its College Athletic Committee (CAC) Sports Clinic to enhance studentathlete skills.

“The Santa Cruz Association of Youth Organizations (SCAYO), led by Jerry Huerbana Jr., in collaboration with the LGU Santa Cruz, led by our kind Mayor Hon. Jose Nelson “Tata” Sala, and Ateneo De Davao University, launched the free sports clinic intending to bolster sports in the municipality when COVID-19 gradually subsided”, Carl Deck C. Cortes, District PESS Coordinator said during the opening of the sports clinic on November 30, 2022, at Santa Cruz Central Elementary School.

Cortes stated that the initiatives enabled athletes to get ready and become accustomed to the new standard configuration, preparing them to compete effectively.

Santa Cruz National High School’s athletes underwent basketball, volleyball, and soccer training at the CAC’s Sports Clinic, which took place in preparation for the forthcoming Municipal Meet.

The athletes of SCNHS applauded the SCAYO and ADDU for organizing the event that helped them prepare and improve their skills.

Teodoro Petecio, father of Olympic silver medalist Nesthy Petecio, trains and builds skills and discipline on potential boxers at Santa Cruz National High School, free of charge.

photo by: DepEd DavSur Domopoy’s remarkable skill and grit land her on the podium with a silver medal at DAVRAA.

photo by: mary DAQUIPIL Path to Greatness. Teodoro Petecio takes the lead in mentoring SCNHS athletes to excellence.

photo by: erich PORRAS Driven to Excel. SCAYO’s relentless commitment to harnessing student-athlete’s skills fuels their journey towards athletic greatness.

“ Walang hihinto hangga’t walang ginto.

Teodoro Petecio Neshty Petecio’s Father