The Radiance E-Newsletter 2022

Inclement weather halts Q1 exams

DepEd issues updated class suspension guidelines

DUMARAO, Capiz - Early bird students in Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. National High School were sent home as authorities suspend classes due to a heavy downpour of rain early on Oct. 27.

This happened on the second half of the first faceto-face quarterly examination after more than two years of the COVID-19 pandemic prompting students to modular distance learning.

“Tungod sa padayon nga pag-ulan kag pagtaas sang tubig sa nagkalain-lain nga kabarangayan sa banwa sang Dumarao, ginapahibalo ko nga nagpapanaug ako sang order nga suspendido ang klase subong nga adlaw sa tanan nga level sa bilog nga banwa sang Dumarao,” said Mayor Atty. Matt Hachuela in facebook post.

Meanwhile, Capiz Governor Fredenil Castro also issued a public advisory suspending all government work in the province except for frontline offices.

On Sept. 1, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte signed the DepEd Order No. 37 s. of 2022 to promote the safety and protection of learners and personnel from “unnecessary physical dangers that they may be exposed to during natural disasters and calamities.”

During a typhoon, DepEd said that in-person,

online classes and work from Kindergarten to Grades 12 and Alternative Learning System (ALS) in all levels are “automatically canceled” in schools situated in Local Government Units (LGUs) issued with Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 by the PAGASA.

“School officials can cancel or suspend classes at their own discretion,” the agency said.

Having suffered devastating flooding last April this year due to Tropical Storm Agaton, prior to the suspension from the LGU, Jocilyn Gialogo, the school principal, already instructed the teachers on what to do when the situation gets worse.

However, some students who were already in the school aired their concerns about the ‘late announcement’ of class suspension.

“Una pa lang alam na ng mga teachers at students na may bad weather pero nung kailan na nandun ka na sa school, i-suspend na lang natin kasi mahirapan ang iba sa pag-uwi. It was only like a few minutes since we arrived tapos biglang sasabihin na lang na uuwi na lang,” said Stefunnie Maye Pelere, a Grade 9-Jupiter student adding “parang naguluhan ako at na-frustrate ng very, very light.”

On the other hand, teachers have no authority to suspend classes during these times but it lies to the hands of the LGU, as reiterated by DO No. 37, s. 2022’

UN Celebration bids studes creativity

MARTHA CARMELA ALDABON

Dominating the runaway with different national costumes which highlight the creativity among students, 24 pairs of students representing their class sections from Grades 7-12 joined the FashionDayag 2022 on Oct. 20.

The said activity aimed to commemorate the anniversary of the official creations of the United Nations established in 1945.

Tricia Dorilag and Rey John Alejandrino from Grade 12-HUMSS brought home the crown followed by Sweetlyn Lasap and Rexer Braga of Grade 7-Lily as first runner-up.

The other winners include Emmanuel Gole and Rona Mae Panganiban of Grade 12-ABM as the 2nd runners-up, Martin Dale Cardo and Anthonette Grace Alavez of Grade 10-Ruby as the 3rd runner-up, and Mercy Santestiban and Romel Jake Lumbo as Grade 12-SMAW the 4th runner-up.

The event was organized by the Supreme Student Government (Eagles) in collaboration with the Barkada Kontra Droga and the Araling Panlipunan Department.

2 Ramonian faculty shine in SDO-Capiz

MAXINE NATHANIA ORTEZA

Excellence has the Ramonian mantra as two faculty members bagged recognition in two different feats organized by the Schools Division of Capiz.

With his breakthrough entitled “LETSGO: Learning Effectively Through Simple Game-Offline,” Master Teacher I Dr. Jerick Brillo earned the second runner-up in the 2nd SDO Capiz Innovation Showdown on Nov. 18.

“It will always be a humbling experience, and it added another feather in our cup to represent my school and Dumarao district,” said the Senior High School Coordinator who also finished Top 6 last year.

Meanwhile, Novie Faith Escamilla also secured the second runner-up in the Home Gardening Program-Teachers Category of the SDO Capiz in a memorandum dated Oct. 26.

“I feel happy because my efforts have been recognized. This validation made me more inspired to do more, to continue my passion for vegetable gardening, and to encourage others to do the same,” said Escamilla.

BRITHNEY KYLE LAURON AND CHEALSEA NICOLE BUG-OS

FACE TO FACE EXAM | Ramonians take their first quarter examination after more than two years of modular learning /(PHOTO BY PEYEP).

Ramonians unite for nat’l students day celebration

When there is unity, there is strength.

As a post-celebration of National Students’ Day, Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. National High School on Friday highlighted the call for unity for all after staging varied activities.

With the theme “One for all, All for one, Ramonians,” the said event is anchored on the NSD 2022, which is supposedly celebrated every 17th of November.

“The purpose of this program is to let the students enjoy, learn and showcase their talent at the same time,” said Kristine Alfuente, president of the Supreme Student Government.

Furthermore, this celebration intends to empower all students to become champions to support the flagship program initiated by DepEd Region 6 to produce “champion learners.”

Meanwhile, manifesting their strength in “stock knowledge” as revealed by their team, participants from Grade 11-HUMSS (Athena) bested all 15 groups competing from Grade 9-12 in the Quiz Bee competition, followed by Grade 11-GAS (Apollo) while Grade 10-Jade and Grade 10-Ruby tied in the third spot.

For Grades 7 and 8, Kathleen Fontiveros of Grade 8 - Apple triumphed to snatch the championship from tough contenders of Grade 7-Daffodils’ Maxine Nathania Orteza and Joice Alexine Sondia who rallied behind the second and third spots, respectively.

Dressed as Maleficent, Fontiveros also bested nearly 50 participants in the Character Impersonation as she was named Best in Costume. On the other hand, Quincy Jean Lasap of Grade 7-Lily convinced the crowd that she is Valentina, a supervillain with venomous snakes on her head, to grab the Best in Impersonation award.

“Ka-cool sang character ni Maleficent kag bagay siya [the role] sa akun ang mga muna nga character, tapus insaktuhan lang kay may bayo

ko nga parehas sa iya [Maleficent],” said Fontiveros who gave life to the role of the character as a beautiful young woman of pure heart which hardened by a betrayal and eventually made her a creature bent on revenge.

Apart from the contests, students also showcase presentations through band singing and playing band instruments.

The SSG has co-partnered with the English and Filipino departments to facilitate the event which aims to showcase and empower the skills and talents of every Ramonian student.

‘STORMY HOLIDAY’

Paeng batters PH leaving a hundred death toll

centers, while 3,577 individuals, or 924 families were staying elsewhere.

In most provinces, it hardly hit agriculture and extremely affected sources of income of farmers as the flood waters subsided their rice fields and other plantations that are ready for harvest.

The country’s 16th tropical cyclone for 2022 left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) at 12:10 pm on Oct. 31, but it continues to affect parts of Luzon and Western Visayas.

However, worries and tension can be drawn from ordinary farmers like 75-year-old Lolita Bacia who witnessed how her rice fields were ruined by the disastrous flood.

Unleashing torrential rain that triggered floods and landslides in most parts of the country, Severe Tropical Storm Paeng sharply brought a traumatizing prelude to a long weekend to mark All Saints’ Day among Filipinos.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Oct. 31 evening reported the death toll to

have climbed to 101; 73 of which have been confirmed while 28 are subject to confirmation.

In Western Visayas alone, the

Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 6 report showed 135,025 persons or 39,217 families from 259 barangays in the region were affected by Paeng.

The report also said that 17,167 residents or 4,443 families have been staying at evacuation

“Apat ka sako nga binhi sang palay ubos gd ginbahaan, masubo gid ang natabo kag daw mahibi gd ko isipon nga isa ka crop wala sang tubson nga makaresulta sang gutom,” said Bacia, a resident of Aglanot, Dumarao, Capiz

Classes were suspended last Oct. 29-30 as a preventive measure for the possible onslaught of the tropical storm.

RUCHEL ANN CARMEN

SHANEL ASHLEY VALDEZ AND JODEL JINON

WAR ON FLOOD | Residents brace the floodinhg brought by the Severe Tropical Storm Paeng /(Roxas City Communications Group

RAISE YOUR ANSWERS | Grades 11-HUMMS won in the Quiz bee.

Resurgence girds new breed of campus journos

ROMEO HAQUIAS

“I AM RESURGENT.”

Bold letters printed on a dark violet t-shirt that signifies the statement of The Radiance as Resurgence 2022 finally concludes on Dec. 3.

Graced by no less than awardwinning coach Jonell Gregorio, Instructor I from Aklan State University, as he talked about the tips in Editorial and Feature Writing.

“Champions are not made overnight,” said Gregorio emphasizing that constant training is important for campus journalists.

Gregorio has tagged the publication as the best journalism school in Capiz after staging its victory in the National Schools Press Conference 2020.

“Some of the best writers came from your school and I am proud to have worked with you in your first NSPC victory,” cited the journalism mentor.

The Resurgence started on Sept. 30 as the screening and selection process of The Radiance for all aspiring campus journalists of Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. NHS with 75 initial participants.

The second leg was held on Nov. 12.

Apart from the distinguished trainers in their respective fields, Resurgence has also served as an avenue for the homecoming of some publication alumni.

“As a journalist, it is your role to give voice to the voiceless and how you can do it by holding your pen and letting it shine,” said Nashly O’ Valerie Gangoso, the inspirational speaker of the first leg of the series.

This was supported by the last leg inspirational speaker Joanna Grace who acknowledged that no one has started as an expert or excellent as everyone has starting point [in journalism].

Other publication alumni who served as resource speakers were Mark Anthony Bajada in photojournalism and Benjie Hallarda in sports writing.

After earning 188 points for three sessions of training writeshops, the Resurgence 2022 hailed Grade 11 as the Top Performing Grade Level followed by Grades 10 and 7 garnering 170 and 143 points, respectively.

“We hope this training serves as a stepping stone that will open more opportunities for you to thrive and become the best version of yourselves with our team,” said Falcis.

Local Co-op receives P3.5M grant, projects

BRITHNEY KYLE LAURON AND KRISTINE LAFUENTE

“We

These are the evocative words of Dumarao town Mayor Atty. Mateo Hachuela during the inauguration and turnover of Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Project (P) support facility and other government projects to Brgy. Gibato’s Progressive Women and Agrarian Reform Cooperative, Dec. 2.

“Kon indi kita kaagi gutom, waay kita kaagi kapigaduhon, indi kita magbakas [If we didn’t experience hunger and poverty, we won’t strive],” said Hachuela as he addressed the PWARC officers and members adding, “If you won’t strive hard, you can’t overcome.”

The PWARC is a lucky

recipient of a grant amounting to more than 3.5 million pesos support facility and other projects from its partner government agencies like the Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Trade and Industry, Land Bank of the Philippines, and Sugar Regulatory Administration.

According to its Chairperson Ma. Cecilia Ibabao, the PWARC employees and members suffered losses in its operations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But the LBP offered them a 20 million pesos credit line to provide for the financial needs of its members and purchase a brand new delivery van for their juices and other products.

On the other hand, the SRA also granted them capital for block farming which benefitted 15 sugarcane planters in Gibato and one tractor unit with complete accessories.

Ibabao highlighted the role of the DAR led by its PARPO II Anthony P. Arostique and DTI as their support system since the PWARC started.

“This EPAHPP program is a great help for us to recover – not only for the Cooperative but for the farmers and employees,” said Ibabao, also serving as a faculty in Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. National High School.

The event is attended by the representatives of the partner agencies and some of the Sangguniang Bayan Members here.

DepEd to teachers: Unfollow learners on socmed

BRITHNEY KYLE LAURON

Department of Education released an order enumerating the policies they made which promotes professionalism and prohibits the relationship between the teacher and the learner and any other interactions with learners not related to school activities.

The Department Order No. 49 series of 2022 dated November 2 was issued amid the implementation of the full

in-person classes in public schools.

DO 49 has amended DepEd Order 47 and introduced a new section and specified the following rules which are in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees

Depted teachers are told to “avoid relationships, interaction,

and communication, including following social media with learners outside of the school setting.

Desist from any act that may compromise one’s integrity as a government employees and that may compromise the honor of the DepEd.

This act just reminds the teachers of having a gap between their students and to avoid favoritism, Deped stated.

have to make the lives of our farmers easier.”

WHEN PESO IS DOWN

As the Philippines continues to struggle with record-high inflation brought on by the weakening of the peso over a dollar, Filipinos need to combat the rapid towering prices of commodities. The ill-fated scenes of the economy at Dacuton market, in Dumarao town, here in Capiz are added burden to local consumers. Their wallets gobbled up in the markets.

The products needed daily decreased as the dollar tampered with the peso value. In this gallery of society, no one is exempted. So when the peso is down, injured pockets are endured in a costly market.

FIGURES ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW | In Oct. 2022, the dollar to peso rate reached an all-time high of P58.825 . Also in the same month, the inflation rate accelerated to 7.7% from 6.9 percent in September, the highest since October 2018.

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY RUCHEL ANN CARMEN

EDITORIAL Never Enough

Teaching is considered the profession of all professions. It adheres to the Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. To solidify the role of the Department of Education in promoting professionalism, DO Order 49, s. 2022 creates another policy prohibiting the relationship between the teacher and the learner and any other interactions not related to school activities on social media.

Great teachers form strong relationships with their students and show care. An existing law serves as the golden book to guide this noble profession. Amending another order that cuts the ties between the students and teachers is untimely in the context of this generation of learners who have adopted social media as an alternative way to communicate with their learners. According to the United States Department of Labor, professionalism means communicating effectively and appropriately and always finding a way to be productive. Teachers are not like other professions. The platform where a teacher may affect learning is unconditional. Contrary to the newly introduced provision of this Order, trust can only be built with communication. It is impractical to impose something that is already existing. Now there is no way for us to just sit back then.

Instruction does not end inside the classrooms. No matter how clear it is, clarification cannot be avoided. As a solution, educators sent their follow-up clarifications and instructions to their students via online platforms and it makes it easier for them to communicate and answer their questions about any other school-related issues. According to Mashburn (2008), the better your communication skills, the more effectively you can perform tasks. In turn, your students will make more academic progress. Studies have found that the success of students is directly related to interactive, engaging teaching environments. Students don’t approach teachers only because of hidden motives. Sometimes they found a new parent inside the school. Some students trust their teacher more than their parents who became their shoulder whenever they are lost and drowned in

school and family problems. Young adults are prone to mental health issues and one of the prior reasons is family problems. A related study of Frontiersin Origin also confirmed that academic and family stress leads to depression among students, negatively affecting their academic performance and learning outcomes. And teachers, as second parents, can give the care students long for. Everyjobrequiresprofessionalisminandoutoftheworkplace and respect. However, to achieve successful teaching, a teacher must gain the trust of the student. And building relationships cannot be obtained only by teaching them lessons but by touching hearts by listening to their stories and the challenges they are going through.

The case of six teachers of Bacoor National High School in the National Capital Region who allegedly committed sexual harassment against their students then means others will do the same. If proven guilty after due process is performed, then they should face the consequence. However, the mistake of six teachers will never define the hundreds of thousands of teachers who sincerely care for their students.

As student journalists, we aim to have an equal amount of treatment and no judgment on how the teacher acts on Facebook or any kind of social media platform because it is already part of their personal life. If cases of favoritism exist in the classroom, we can serve as the voice of those who are oppressed in fighting for the equal treatment they deserved.

We call on the DepEd to review DO No. 49 by getting the consensus of those teachers working in the field if the new provision is fair enough to assert professionalism where students will not be left behind. In the darkest hours of the pandemic, social media has played a great role in student-teacher communication. Had it been without platforms like this, then distance or online learning will not survive for more than two years.

Every teacher deserves to be respected and every learner must be treated fairly and squarely. Teachers play a huge role in a student’s life, not only as a teacher but as a friend, a brother, and family. They mold students to be a better version of their selves, and the four corners of the classroom are never enough to brighten that future.

GRADES DEFINE ATTITUDE

The first quarter has passed so swiftly and I am just so terrified of what would be the outcome of the seed I sow what excites me more is that I have a glimpse of how my grades fare for the previous grading period. And for that reason, Nov. 15, has been set as the first quarter card day.

Most of the time I am fond of saying “review review are you a fool” and said Grades are just a number, grades don’t matter, and grades cannot dictate my future - these were just some popular phrases I usually uttered every time I found out my grades. I may sometimes used to just believe and stood on what comforted my mind and to have less disappointment in myself.

What seemed to be the usual scenario - most students get contented with getting lower grades while I battled, endured, and fought a better fight to land in the cream of the crop. Some would have chosen not to rise through the ranks and settled for less. For students who lag

BRITHNEY KYLE LAURON

difficulties, and breakdowns -- I would have burned midnight candles and I even sacrificed my health to achieve the goal of getting higher grades. Sometimes, I got disappointed in having the very least of their expectations.

A writer from Candy Magazine in 2017 reminded students that grades are just numbers used to determine your standardized placement, and as cliché, as it may sound, they do not define who you are. What matters most is what is rooted deeply in your heart, the things that drive you to continue living everyday life.

behind the academic list, saving grace or not, getting 80+ is enough while 90+ is unwanted and unexpected. While I am a consistent honor student always complained each time I saw my grades fall short of my high expectations, others would be celebrating when the coveted 75 passing grade is met.

We faced different struggles,

As a student, it is a reminder that my grades do not solely dictate my future. Numerous factors are still involved in the process that would determine how I become. However, it reflects how much I worked hard to comply with all the tasks given in school. It also symbolizes how much I pushed through to get the best I can to reward myself and gain the fruit of my hard work and the times I sacrificed

ONE DAY MILLIONAIRE

KRISTINE ALFUENTE

In the post-pandemic era, fiesta celebration remains fragile for many Filipinos. Catholic people believe that this is a must tradition that promotes the fate and unity of the citizens. Fiesta is of Spanish origin. When Spanish missionaries enter the Philippines during the mid-1500s they found that the fiesta was a convenient tool to help teach Filipinos to Roman Catholic Faith.

Fiesta is celebrated in many ways, through foods, activities, street dances, colorful decorations, and loud music to promote unity and faith. But in today’s generation, do citizens still view fiesta the same way it was viewed, or does it become just another entertainment and excuse for overspending?

Filipino has always shown religious relevance in the celebration of the fiesta as an emblem of faith. However, millennials and generation Z tend to take advantage of this celebration as an excuse for irrational behavior. Instead of remembering the patron, I observe that people are more excited for the rides, street vendors, and especially for the peryahan and the disco overnight.

The highlight of the fiesta changed as generations changed.

Youth became more distant when it comes to religious activities, and what makes us think that fiesta is still celebrated as an emblem of faith from the point of view of youths.

to faith. Even during fiesta, they choose to roam around sightseeing, socialize and enjoy the rides. But then, we still claim that fiesta is to promote faith and not only for entertainment.

RESONATOR

my health to have what I wanted. A mark on my card is the epitome of hard work. Grades are like marks. They are standards set for a specific time. As journalist and podcaster Manish Thakur would define it, “Marks never show your intelligence, but it reflects your hard work.” After all, grades do not only measure the quantity of our learning. More importantly, it also measures our attitude toward learning.

Peryas became the reason why fiesta is exciting for youth, the bands and the sports activities became the highlight of the celebration. Citizens are more excited about the ‘Liga’ than the masses. Youth are more interested in energetic activities where they can scream, dance, and wear vulgar activities.

Youth became more distant when it comes to religious activities, and what makes us think that fiesta is still celebrated as an emblem of faith from the point of view of youths. Most young people are never interested when it comes

Aside from losing its value, it is also harmful to the environment as it leaves an apocalyptic amount of garbage. Waste generated at festivals is one of the most prominent environmental impacts that festivals have. Not only is there a great deal of waste generated at many events. It is the most visible impact of the festivals that can pose a health risk. According to World Economic Forum, tons of plastic waste is generated at music festivals which can create a serious environmental problem. The study of Invorotech shows that the biggest source of carbon emissions comes from the exhaust fumes of the vehicles used by festival-goers when arriving and departing the venue.

Unity is promoted during fiesta, especially for contest purposes. But it also promotes disunity as it drives citizens to compete with each other in decorations and banquets. Fiesta is also starting to become a celebration where you have

RESURRECTOR

to prepare most or the max amount of food that sometimes goes down the drain and suffer in poverty after the celebration. According to Asian Development Bank, in the Philippines, 23.7% of the population lived below the national poverty line in 2021.

I believe that there are other ways of celebrating fiestas. A more simple celebration but more meaningful. The essence of faith must be revived as it is almost forgotten by everyone. A fiesta that focuses on faith, Christianity, and sacred, not a normal event that encourages people to be carefree and be a one-day millionaire after spending everything and left with nothing.

It also symbolizes how much I pushed through to get the best I can to reward myself and gain the fruit of my hard work and the times I sacrificed my health to have what I wanted.

As face-to-face classes officially resume this School Year, there is no way for Ramonian students not to take the first quarter exams physically after more than two years of modular distance learning.

To most students, exams are like battles they need to fight harder. Thus, in order to conquer that battle, you need to have a winning strategy. Hence, strategies are very important in this battle. So before the fragrance of laurels fade, we asked these students to respond in this question: “What is your strategy to pass the first quarter exams?”

We hope these responses may also inspire other students to do well as they surpass their own battles. Rock on, Ramonians!

NO PRESSURE, NO DIAMONDS

Porras, 22, who graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Elementary Education at Capiz State UniversityDayaw Satellite College.

As the first batch of graduates of the K-12 curriculum of Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. National High School, implemented last 2016 under DepEd Order No. 021, Nashley O’ Valerie Gangoso, Fren Jotham Enetorio, Lorraine Porras, and Criz Joy Villuaruel, raise the flag of Romanians community in different college universities.

People say that college years are the most crucial stage of education. We face challenges we never encounter during high school, which sometimes leads us to doubt even ourselves.

Social Anxiety, lack of motivation, and self-doubt failed to hinder Nashly O’ Valerie Gangoso, 22, as she graduated Cum Laude with Bachelor in Science Respiratory Therapy at Central Philippine University (CPU).

“By not comparing myself to others, being optimistic, and with prayers, I overcome those challenges. I remind myself that I’m studying for my good and my future self,” says Gangoso who finished on top of their batch here.

Gangoso shared that she prays with all her heart during examination days.

When she felt drained, down, and lost, prayer is her medicine. But, she never expected to be one of the Latin Honors of her batch.

In the same way, Fren Jotham Enetorio, 22, finished Cum Laude in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Marketing Management (BSBA) at Capiz State University (CAPSU) Main Campus.

Enetorio feels surreal and happy when he received the news. Since he believes that studying in college is about passing all the subjects, he never expects to be one of the Latin Honors despite the financial problems and a little help from technology.

“During college, I faced different challenges. I think the financial problem is the major challenge. If you go to college, it’s hard if you lack resources,” reveals Enetorio who asserted that you don’t have a choice but to deal with it.

Furthermore, Enetorio believes that if we think about prioritizing needs over wants, and avoid panic, and depression when facing a personal financial crisis, then we will get back on track if we keep up the work.

Another achiever from the batch is Lorraine

She claimed that being part of their publication in college - Capiz Shell - gave her an advantage as a student because she gets to show her capability as a student and helps her build confidence.

“Never turn your back to the negatives and failures in your life. Face it with God, with faith; we can overcome the challenges along the way. Just ask guidance from our Creator, because I believe that prayer will help us build a stronger faith in God,” says Porras when asked about her message to aspiring college students.

Getting many priorities along the way never stopped Criz Joy Villaruel, 23, as she made her family proud when she gained the title of Magna Cum Laude in Bachelor in Secondary Education Major in Filipino at Capiz State University-Main Campus.

She was also a former Captain in BSED Filipino B, School Year 2020 until 2022, which made it hard for her to focus on her studies. “I cried many times. But then despite the struggles that I had, I never used this as a reason to raise my white flag. Instead, I used this as a weapon and inspiration to pursue what I already started for I know the key to

be things possible is to follow what your heart and mind say and entrust everything to God,” says Villaruel. Those challenges she faced, made her achievement sweeter. Together with the support, she receives from her family, especially from her father who is a farmer, and her mother who is now in God’s realm but still never fails to motivate her.

All of these four students of Batch 2017-2018 faced different challenges during their college years, but those struggles never stopped them to pursue their goals. Instead, they become their motivations and weapons, their stepping stone to achieving their dreams. Because success is only to those who are molded by challenges, as the pressure can make a hidden diamond shine.

“By not comparing myself to others, being optimistic, and with prayers, I over come those challenges.

I remind myself that I’m studying for my good and my future self.”

Four Senior High School pilot graduates of SY 20172018 earned Latin Honors in their respective college courses as they overcome the handicaps of being a college student and bring honor to our school.

KRISTINE ALFUENTE

GANGOSO

ENETORIO

PORRAS

VILLARUEL

‘CROWN AND CROWD’

Joseph Lasap and how he raised ‘her’ rainbow flag on high

From joining an amateur beauty pageant to being a freelance makeup artist, and currently, a junior college student, when all odds are against you is one for the books.

And so, with his confidence and convincing answer to a question about “What is the essence of being gay?” an alumnus of Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. National High School is crowned as the Ms. Gay Capiz 2022 last March 19.

“I received a lot of criticism and negativities, but what I instilled in my mind and heart is to have a purpose. We are yelling for respect, we are shouting for equality, but we don’t know the true definition of it,” says Joseph Lasap, 22, with a conviction that gay is not only about showing elegance without respect.

Despite receiving a lot of criticism and negativity, younger Joseph started his pageantry in junior high school. He was only a mere makeup artist as he had to maintain his academic standing. “Never did I imagine that the dream of being on stage, having pasarela, and acing the Q and A had come true,” says the title holder as he tells his experiences in the field of pageantry.

His gorgeous beginning

Having not been born with a silver spoon life, Joseph had to wake up before the sun rises daily to prepare for his

needs in school, and eventually, go home at dusk while taking every chance to have an extra income.

“As a student, it is a struggle for me to depend on my parents for all my allowances since they are already old and I should think of things I could earn an income to support my studies and needs,” the Brgy. Gibato native reveals.

Makeup sets, brushes, and everything are the fruits of his labor, and somehow he could tell himself that once in his life, he became a winner.

Growing up in a world full of cruelty and inequality, as a member of the LGBTQ community, he experienced bullying and bashing because his preference is different from others. Behind the negative feedback about his gender, Joseph did not stop there, as he was motivated to strive and achieve more.

“I never listened to those people who gave negative energy towards me. I used those unpleasant words to fuel my guiding principles, my beliefs, so I can conquer every fear that surrounds me,” says Joseph as he believes that bullying is always there and we can’t please everybody.

As a consistent honors student and a former SSG President of SY 20192020, time management is a vital skill one should acquire. “ I believe that being on the right track, having a positive environment, determination, perseverance, and self-discipline could bring us into greater things,” he cites.

His pageant stories

Joining pageantry became a hobby for Joseph as he enters various barangays competitions or gay pageants that enable him to upgrade his skills and confidence to be more polished as a candidate. Just like many beginners, he experienced a roller coaster ride as part of winning and losing as a contender. Accepting the outcomes is the key to achieving what you truly deserve.

As a college student now taking Bachelor in Physical Education at CAPSU-Main, he did not settle for earning small titles in pageantry, but even though he experienced a lot of struggles, breakdowns, and some unfortunate things happened in his journey until he stays align with him to be crowned as the Ms. Gay Capiz 2022.

Being gay is not a curse. It is God’s purpose to make someone’s personality unique and He knew that every problem you will face in the future is given to you as a trial for you to overcome struggles and to become successful in your way.

“One thing I am holding onto is my faith, praying is one weapon I chose to carry throughout my journey, and that thing never fails me”, says Joseph after winning in the Ms. Gay Capiz 2022. Hard work and patience are the things that someone needs to know if you have a goal and dreams to achieve something because settling for a bare minimum is a sign of cowa rdness.

“I compare my pageant journey to a butterfly - struggles and fears are there in the path that I am leading - but I am waiting for my wings to spread out. There might be uncertainties in every battle, but one thing is sure - if you put effort, determination, and especially love for your passion, surely it will fly you to greater things,” he concludes.

For Joseph, he may not only win the crown, but he has also wowed the crowd that someone like him can make a difference.

RUCHEL ANN CARMEN

When ‘Taklad’ Means Uplifting Hope

RUCHEL ANN CARMEN

Three years ago, we staged our ways of giving school supplies to feeding a hundred and climbing stiff mountains to reaching out even when not required for campus journalists. Three years after, the we promise to come back.

And so, at the heart of Dumarao, the children from a community of Indigenous Peoples here always had a special place for The Radiance.

Intending October as a celebration of National Indigenous Peoples month that aims to support and raise awareness of indigenous cultural communities, it also reminds us of the noble initiatives the publication has undertaken over the years to uplift the pride of valuing the IP children.

In 2018, The Radiance initially launched the “Taklad Tag-ao,”

events to an unexpected shutdown.

By March, all of the ongoing sports events have been called off. On the oth er hand, approaching affairs were either carried over or canceled. What came next is months full of expectations. As unsurety covered the world and lock downs became the new normal, fans and also the players/athletes started to wait for sports to return to action.

The last time major events were im pacted was during World War II. As we are facing an invisible but deadly op ponent, little did we anticipate any live sports this year. But as the year came to an end, sports also embraced the new normal. While many events were post poned, some organizers established a way to get athletes back on track after a few months of hiatus as sports resumed behind closed doors.

Conducting matches behind closed doors and players living in a bio-secure

which is the publication’s simple way of appreciating them. ‘Taklad’ is a Hiligaynon term which means to hike or to go higher. In this case, what is being lifted is the hope that makes IP children no different. A hope that builds their fullness identity and gives them a greater sense of pride.

In its pilot year, elementary pupils of Brgy. Tamulalud here received a set of school supplies and enjoyed a variety of presentations prepared by Team Ponkans. The following year, gift packages reached their homes at Mt. Tag-

bubble were among the many precau tions taken toward a safe and secure re turn to action. In addition to that, play ing without audiences and fans was also an experience that players had to get accustomed to.

Moreover, there needs to be a fast yet simple and reliable test. There also must be enough available public testing to avoid the spread of the deadly virus. According to several infectious disease specialists, there is also daily monitor ing of symptoms with limited effective ness as asymptomatic carriers can be contagious before showing symptoms.

But while bubbles are proving to be the best and safest way to conduct the business of playing sports, they do not last forever. And it is what comes next — as teams and leagues attempt some thing resembling normalcy in commu nities where the virus is still on the rise — that will be a riskier test for sports.

The only reason bubbles became

ao. This opportunity inspired them to consider their rights and preserve their indigenous culture.

The publication’s multi-awarded tabloid issue in 2020 has bannered on the importance of how ‘Educate and Care’ means hope to the Ati community through access to equitable, caring, and inclusive education.

More than two years after their ‘Taklad,’ The Radiance is looking forward to staging another project that will continue to highlight the importance of the IP children. The Ati community in Tag-ao is part of the society. Like any other people in the community, they need to be valued as they show the life of the ethnic people, the origin of every Filipino.

necessary, of course, is because the United States failed to wrest control of the virus in ways that other developed nations have. In Europe, most of the world’s top soccer leagues finished their seasons with teams playing in their stadiums. Fans were allowed back into baseball stadiums in South Korea then.

But even as questions about the wis dom of returning to play in dozens of virus-ridden communities have grown louder, there has been a level of confi dence internally that the lessons learned while inside the bubble — the impor tance of constant testing, mask-wearing and, more important, the conscientious conduct of athletes — will serve players well outside of it.

The drawbacks of bubbles, of course, are plain. They are difficult to organize, expensive to maintain, and emotionally taxing on players, who cannot return to their homes for weeks or months at a time.

‘RESURRECTED GAMES’

Sophies outsmart giant grade levels in NSD

BRITHNEY KYLE LAURON

A dazzling performance from the students of Grade 8 to stage a flawless victory displaced all other partici pating grade levels in majority of the games organized by the Supreme Student Government (SSG) in the cele bration of National Students’ Day here yesterday.

Students staged the Ra monian ground on fire as they experienced outdoor games for the first time in school since the pandemic started with six grade levels competing in four rounds of games.

In the first game, the battle of excellence and character was tested in the Question and An swer round where the learners of 12-member groups opened the victory for Grades 8 in the Grades 7-9 bracket while Grade 11 gained the first triumph in the Grades 10-12 bracket.

After a while, the second game started rolling with the Snake Roll round which led to an unexpected hiatus in the play as one of the Grade 11 players suffered an injury. The gap ended for a few minutes as the player, Gio Jocanas, had to endure the pain. Nonetheless, as the game continued, the Grade 12 fighters secured an unprecedented victory.

As the games persist, the Short Relay round was played by 12 participants where three players need to wear two shorts then run to the center and turn

around the chairs prepared by the organizers. The game was smooth and ended without any complications until Grades 8 and 12 finally clinched their spots as they tied as the thirdgame winners.

In the fourth game, the players need to fill the bot tles with brave souls and were ready to defend their spots un til the championship tally was secured by the Grade 8 enough to fill the tank and send home all their opponents after de spite being tied with the Grade 10 warriors.

The outdoors games are the culminating activity of the National Students’ Day cele bration with the theme “One for all, All for One, Ramonians.”

Sports Editorial Postponement and Resumption

From mourning due to the tragic death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, we are also mourned on David Stern, Wes Unseld, and many other sports personalities who also passed away this year. But what made sports became the center topic of all the issues is the cancellation of some major sporting events.

All of us are expecting a year filled with major sports events at the onset of 2020 as the sporting world was set to ring into another year. But fate turned things around after a massive outbreak of the deadly COVID-19 brought all sporting