BY JASTINE BAYLOSIS, JEANINE LATAQUIN, AND ALORRAH PETRAS
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF HOLY ROSARY COLLEGE Tagapo, City of Santa Rosa, Laguna | Vol. I No. 1 | October-November 2013
With the theme “HRC Going Green at 35”, Holy Rosary College celebrated the week-long celebration of its 35th founding anniversary last October 8-11. After a thanksgiving mass and the Day wherein by the end of the proLiving Rosary ceremony, the festivi- gram, students from different year ties were officially kicked off as 2013's levels gave their gifts and tokens of Tinig ng Rosarian Matthew Malabuy- appreciation to their teachers. Despite oc sang the HRC Hymn from the sec- time constraints that came as a result ond floor faculty room, overlooking the of a number of technical difficulties, whole school grounds. It was immedi- some students were able to publicly ately thereafter that the Robin Thicke thank their teachers and the latter song “Blurred Lines” began to blast were able to enjoy a number of from the speakers as Rosarians, with games which the Student Governthe school's official dance group the ment prepared. HRC Dance Company at center High School Department Science stage, grooved under the sun. and Math Coordinator Mr. Digno Salamat was the master of ceremonies for Teacher’s Day Celebration the opening program, while Student After the opening ceremonies, the Government officers Reginald Lunar Student Government took over and and Jastine Baylosis hosted the hosted a short program for the teach- Teachers’ Day Program. ers in observance of World Teacher's (CONTINUED ON PAGE 3)
BY ROLLAN PARAKIKAY
Sweaters seem to be a necessary fashion statement among Rosarians nowadays, students and teachers alike, as classrooms and faculty rooms on campus became fully air-conditioned on October 1. A few months after unofficial announcements regarding said development surfaced across different circles among the Rosarian community, the solarpowered, split-type air conditioners in both high school and elementary buildings are now fully functional, two in each room, and are now providing enhanced ventilation to students and teachers. This was part of the school’s continuing move towards further improving their facilities to provide students with environments more conducive to learning, while also “going green” in light of the theme of its 35th founding anniversary. ■
NOT JUST BALLOONS. The Living Rosary floats through the air minutes after it was launched into the sky in celebration of HRC’s 35th Founding Anniversary. (Photo taken by Mr. Ronald Albaytar)
BY JASTINE BAYLOSIS
Some Rosarian student leaders recently expressed their opinions at the height of the ongoing investigation regarding the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam involving a host of legislators and allegedly crooked non-government organization (NGO) beneficiaries. While it has been reported that the PDAF had already been removed from the national budget as of press time, student leaders still have their doubts and are pushing for the absolute abolition of discretionary funds in the hands of particular government officials. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14)
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News BY ZYRA MORENO
Two Rosarians, along with their colleagues from different high schools across the country, completed a successful multi-contest campaign as they represented the Philippines in international mathematics competitions last July. The youngest of the clan, Albert John, from 8-Pasteur, represented the Philippines and brought the gold home after competing at Singapore last August 2-5 for the 9th International Mathematics Competition. Meanwhile, his sister, Andrei Triz Patupat of IV-Ampere, competed for the Gifted Mathematics "Green World Cup" International Tournament and Asia Math Cup Olympiad where she won silver medals. She also received a Merit Award
for the 22nd "King of Math" International Tournament, all held at Hong Kong, China from July 24-28. Their efforts were part of the overall Philippine delegation which resulted in 66 gold medals, 157 silver medals and 178 bronze medals for a total of 401 medals. They competed with close to a thousand elementary and high school math wizards from China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Macau, Indonesia among others. â–
As a lot of people may not even know, what all the delegates have gone through was definitely not easy. Last summer, my brother and I, along with other MTG kids, had to go to Manila six days every week just to attend eight hours of rigorous Math problem-solving skills training. But thankfully, this whole journey paid off and left a meaningful mark in my life. Ultimately, having brought home medals for my family, our school, and our country was a special gift from God whom I owe everything.
Andrei Triz Patupat, on winning said international math contests
The BEADS October-November 2013
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An elementary pupil donning a strikingly colourful costume during while performing during their Field Demonstration, October 10 at the HRC Quadrangle. (Photo by Pamelah Concepcion)
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) Field Demonstrations The High School Department, in commemoration of the 35th founding anniversary of Holy Rosary College, had the annual Field Demonstrations as this year's main event wherein the four high school levels competed through their dance routines. In accordance to this year’s theme, the four basic elements - Water, Fire, Earth, and Air - were assigned to each level which they must present and interpret a five-minute ethnic song. The groups were given about two weeks to make the necessary preparations. Last October 11 in the school's gymnasium, the Juniors, having Earth as their element, dominated the dance floor with their tiger look and fierce jungle-themed performance and was hailed as champions. Meanwhile, it was the Seniors (air), that placed second while Grade 8 (fire) placed third and Grade 7 (water) bagged fourth place. Medical Mission The same week also featured the
first-ever Rosarian Medical Mission, as a number of the school’s alumni who are now medical degree holders such as Drs. Ramuel Malapitan and Catherine Ong, flanked by a greater number of Rosarian alumni nurses, performed free medical check-ups to the school’s surrounding communities in Barangay Tagapo. The Philippine Red Cross and the Santa Rosa City Health Office sponsored free medicines distributed during the event while Gardenia and Nissin were among companies who provided food for the patients.. The medical mission was held on October 11 at the HRC Gymnasium.
jamming ulit tayo sa Holy!", the event featured a variety of musical and dance performances from Rosarians past and present, from three bands (Patrissisimo, Shumarylyts, and Unmelacity) featuring performances from some of HRC's former students who have been long-time musicians, to a surprise dance number by current members of the HRC Dance Company in front of the alumni crowd. According to the event's organizer, HRC Alumni Association President Digno Salamat, this is also a part of a renewed effort to further mobilize the Rosarian alumni community to do more than merely casually getting together. Grand Alumni Homecoming A testament to this is a set of proInclement weather conditions jects prepared by the organization for were unable to stop a significant num- the next few years. ber of past Rosarians from a pool of more than 30 graduate batches to at- Other Activities tend the Grand Alumni Homecoming Among the other activities were at the Holy Rosary College Gymnasi- the Bubble and Magic Show, the Film um on Friday night, October 11, to Showing Events for high school stuwrap up the school's celebration of its dents, as well as the presence of food, 35th Founding Anniversary. merchandise, and game booths all With the theme "Tara! Maki- over campus all week long. ■
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Opinion Every July, the school organizes an annual club formation activity with the ideal aim of gathering students with the same interests into groups. After that, however, many students wonder what happens next. For some clubs, there are very few opportunities and activities which members can sink their teeth into. In some cases, there are clubs in which only the officers are carrying the banner. This makes it appear that most clubs and organizations in HRC may just be existing only for the sake of existence rather than out of genuine student interest. One problem is some of these students find it difficult to reach a level of consistency with respect to their commitment to particular organizations, because let us face it, students are very busy with their studies and they seem to fail to manage their schedules. Another problem is peer pressure. Some students only choose a certain club because of their friends. They probably are unwilling to be alone in a certain club that is why they just tag along with their friends to whatever club they want, even if they have no interest in that club. What makes matters worse is that these issues are then compounded through time. As a result, people are already used to it, that is why they just go along with it. There is very little motivation to try to solve the problems of the clubs because the status quo has been embedded in different aspects of their culture. We now become under the impression that these same issues are heavily (if not completely) a function of the level of interest of the students because without it, the students will be unwilling to exert the effort and active stance towards participating in organizations. For instance, Teatro Rosario. This was an organization that is established from the ground up and is running on the fumes of its members who willingly spend some of their Saturdays to pursue an art which they are very passionate about. Other established organizations, such as the HRC Dance Company and Koro Rosario highlight the fact that in order to take organizations over the top, the ability of the teachers to push their students to give more of themselves towards their work in the organizations is absolutely necessary. Furthermore, in the process of amassing accolades outside school through the help of their respective mentors, these organizations exhibit the benefit they reflect not only to their individual members but also to the school itself. At the end of the day, however, it all goes back to the student members themselves who define a club. Likewise, there is definitely a challenge out there for students to do more and achieve more through participating in organizations that they are genuinely interested in and break through the barriers and the issues which the status quo has embedded. To address these issues properly is to require a change in the students themselves, and not just a change of members and officers. These must be part of a long-term solution to reimagine the notion of student organizations in HRC as for students and by students. ■
Dear Editor, Welcome back! It’s been more than a year since your last issue. Now you are releasing a new issue. I hope that this year’s issue will be a successful one. I hope that you could release more issues. I appreciate your hard work and effort. Congratulations for a job well done. I hope that you can publish articles that will help us cope with our environment such as tips on what to do when there is an earthquake or fire, and on how to take care of yourself. Yours truly, An avid reader of The Beads
(Hi avid reader! Thank you for the reception and support. We are doing our best to include your suggestions for our next issue. Thank you for the input! - Editor) Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Send your letters to hrcbeads@gmail.com.
Andrei Triz Patupat
John Loyd De Troz
Elisha Mae Luzano
Jastine Rose Baylosis
Sharlotte Grace Sigua
Mitchelle Jesallyn Balladares
FEATURES EDITOR
LAYOUT EDITOR
John Adolf Sancho
Joseph Benjamin Remolacio
Reginald Lunar
Marinelli Louise Jaranilla
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MANAGING EDITOR
ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR NEWS EDITOR
PHOTOS EDITOR
BROADCAST MEDIA MANAGER
NEWS Mara Dulog, Steven Ilagan, Jeanine Lataquin, Lexter Macalber, Rollan Parakikay, Alorrah Petras FEATURES Shammery Adato, Patricia Bautista, Czethina Belen, Juvilyn Directo, Ria Villena, Gale Zaide EDITORIAL Kim Kenneth Alinsod, Diego Mina, Nicole Obviar SPORTS Paul John Cay, Fiona Malapitan PHOTOJOURNALISTS AND LAYOUT ARTISTS Pamelah Concepcion, Mariel Esternon ILLUSTRATORS Jade Camunggol, Danielle Eligue, Piolo Manuel, Gian Reyes, Alec Salamat COPYREADERS Pamela Madrigal, Bryan Saban, Albert Patupat ROSARIAN BROADCASTERS’ SOCIETY Junevee Amarante, Ruane Bajaro, JA Darauay, Phoebe Joco, Zyra Moreno, Bea Satsatin, Cleo Vierneza Verlin Entena ADVISER
Mrs. Marietta D. Bartolazo PRINCIPAL
The BEADS October-November 2013 JOHN LOYD DE TROZ johnloyd.detroz.98@gmail.com
Our country is now full of internet addicts, and most of us are using social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter for hours on end. Like all students in our generation, I find myself wondering how I am supposed to responsibly react to the national issues I see on the television today. Clearly these should affect everyone, but there is this illusion among our generation that things would have pretty much been the same regardless of what we students do about it. I say that we can use our freedom and rights as a golden opportunity to do actually significant things for society. A good example of this is the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) Scam. Some netizens thought of a way to somehow show their stand on this PDAF issue, with the Million People March campaign through one of the easiest and most effective ways, social media posts on Facebook and Twitter. In the same way, there are many simple things that a high schooler can do to get involved in issues and improvements in our country. For starters, we can use the Internet to our full advantage and benefit through it by sharing the recent news. Spreading the news will get more people aware of what’s happening and awaken their spirit to do something. We can sign online petitions for something we agree or disagree with. An example would be the petition against the Cybercrime law, which has been notorious for some time on the internet. We are capable of doing these things bearing in mind that we should act responsibly and cautiously. We may be too young to care about these things but we are the future of our country. We should not waste the right and the opportunity to use the Internet to make an impact. Even with our own little ways, we can make a big change. We should not just sit there and watch the news on the television when we can make an impact with just a click. ■
5 ELISHA MAE LUZANO elisha.luzano@yahoo.com
It has never been a secret that most families face a lot of financial problems everyday, including jeepney drivers. They have to pay for the boundary and the gasoline expenses to enable them to operate, the maintenance costs for those who own a jeepney, and the personal expenses, the rent, and at the end of the day, they still have to bring home something for their family to stay afloat. These problems, the increase of cost of living in general, that they are facing lead to their call for a two-peso increase in the current minimum fare. However, this P10 minimum fare will not only affect the jeepney drivers but also the commuters. It makes me think of how I and my fellow students are to be affected by this. Have you ever experienced having the exact amount of money for your trip home because you have spent everything already? But what’s worse than that is when you realize that what you think is enough is two pesos short. This is what might happen when the P10 minimum fare starts. But aside from this small effect that the upcoming fare hike may cause, there are still much bigger ones that will affect us even more. Paying additional two pesos per ride may not be a biggie for some commuters especially those who just do so rarely, but paying it on a daily basis more or less three times a day is bound to hurt people's pockets significantly in the long run. Then again, the jeepney remains one of our most common means of transportation because anyone, whatever social status, can ride it anytime. If this fare hike happens, of course people have no choice but to bear with it. Because of this, a huge chunk of the commuters will be forced to choose other means of transportation which are much cheaper. Another effect of this is the price increase of our commodities. When the fare increases, it will affect not only the commuters but... (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6)
ALYSSA NICOLE OBVIAR nicole_ob93@yahoo.com
Certain factors in our environment today such as pollution and fickle weather conditions among other things cause diseases and viruses to be easily transmitted, I managed to ask around school and as it turns out, the main reasons behind students’ absences over the years are usually viral infections. Every so often, students continually go to the school clinic because they have fever, severe cough, asthma and other under the weather conditions. Preventing something is much easier than dealing with it and facing the consequences that it may bring, but kids and teens nowadays have been too preoccupied with watching television all day, chips on hand, or ranting endlessly on Twitter and Facebook rather than exercising every morning and eating nutritious food. Because of these unconscious choices that they tend to make, they will most probably get sick.
Another cause of these diseases is the lack of concern and protection of the students for themselves because they fail to pay attention on the outcome. For students, being absent every now and then means you will miss a lot of lessons which you will have to catch up on before examinations or else you will end up having low grades or even failing ones, all because you got sick. Each and every one of us must take disease preparedness seriously. I think spending 15 minutes a day for exercise or giving up your favorite bag of chips wouldn't be a hassle if we know that it’s all for our health. And not just that, even the simplest ways like cleaning the classroom or not entering inside sweating can help prevent sickness. Remember that what causes these diseases are little things, so why not prevent it with our little deeds? As corny as it may sound, perhaps it is time to suit up and join the fight against diseases. ■
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5)
most especially the goods that are transferred and delivered from one place to another. When the price for the transportation of these goods increases, the price of these goods in the market also increases. This is the major effect of the fare hike and it will affect everyone. A lot may think that a two-peso increase is just nothing, but if we look at the bigger picture, it can affect a lot in our economy. It can affect businesses. It can affect our country more than what we think. It can affect you and your allowance. At the end of the day, the effects, both positive and negative, will definitely be felt, and while the government and other powers-that-be can temper the frustrations of many different and opposing stakeholders, some possibilities come to mind as I think of conditions which may take into consideration the many stakeholders involved in this issue. Maybe the jeepney drivers can ask for an increase gradually so that we can adjust first, maybe series of 50 centavo or one-peso increases over a span of time. Whatever happens at the end of the day, however, it
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY JOHN ADOLF SANCHO
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could very well come down to the success or failure of our ability to adapt to the situation through the smallest of efforts that will help us weather this deceptively significant development. â–
KIM KENNETH ALINSOD kenneth_alinsod117@yahoo.com
For the past few years, the world has gone through a lot of naturally occurring disasters. It is undeniable that these unexpected events are really destructive. These disasters have damaged a lot of properties and have cost lives. Being naturally occurring, there is no known way for these occurrences to be stopped artificially. Therefore, the only way for us to lessen the magnitude of destruction brought about by these events is to be ready for them. But certain questions come out of everyone’s minds: Is the world prepared for future devastating disasters? How can the world achieve disaster preparedness? A lot of fallen buildings, millions-worth of damaged agriculture, and thousands of lost lives; those are what everyone sees after every storm, earthquake, and any other catastrophic event that happens in certain regions or countries in the world. This just means that the world is not yet prepared for even stronger and more destructive calamities to come and that a lot more damage can occur if ever there will be such. With that, steps must immediately be done by everyone and these should, of course, be supported and given importance by the government for this is a big issue to be dealt with. The government can conduct disaster preparedness programs to not only help us be ready for calamities but also to inform everyone about the significance of
our preparation. There can also be television commercials, and radio programs that will teach people about the things that must be set up and readied for cases of emergencies when these calamities strike. Buildings and structures must also undergo maintenance checks- to determine whether or not they are qualified to withstand calamitous circumstances. To be completely prepared, the people must also be aware of the current situation. Of course, one must know what he or she is preparing for. People must be well informed about what are happening, what can possibly happen, and how these can affect their living. In order to accomplish this, people must always check on televisions or radios for advisories regarding such issues. Being aware and well informed, we will find it a lot easier to decide what and how to prepare which can contribute in minimizing the effects that can be caused by certain disastrous events in the future. Can you imagine what may happen if ever a very strong storm or earthquake hits an unprepared country? Can you imagine how devastating that would just be? It will be very grievous and tragic for the victims. Think of this: Are you just going to stare at the damages those disasters can bring or are you going to prepare and withstand them? â–
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Features
BY SHAMMERY ADATO, PHOTOS BY JOSEPH REMOLACIO
Society always seems undervalue them in some for or fashion. Ask every kid in school what he or she wants to be nowadays and you will get about 500 doctors, 200 nurses, 150 lawyers and 100 engineers but never enough teachers. Kids usually think that the teaching career is the most boring job in the catalog. Spending half your life in a classroom; memorizing dates, doing math or writing notes until your fingers fall off and finally after your college graduation, thinking you are finally free of the burden of school but the next thing you know you are back to your old classroom doing the same stuff for the next half of your life. If every child would think that way, I would not be surprised if all the teachers in the world are extinct. But there are still children who yearned to be teachers despite the low income, the lack of respect and sometimes even physical abuse from the students themselves. I salute those kids because what they do not know and what every famous and successful person has realized: a teacher affects flow of our reality and turn us into who we are today. Will our very own national hero Dr. Jose Rizal be able to write the two books that sparked the rebellion which
helped the Philippines to have the freedom we have now if his mother, his first teacher, did not teach him how to write the alphabet? Mostly, we do not notice it but what our teachers teaches us greatly affects us in the future as to how Rizal’s mother is to him. And besides our teachers have a persistence and level–headedness that we ought to adore. The eternal cycle continues. With our teachers teaching us everything we have to know and in turn, we, in the future will teach the future Rizal’s, Einstein’s and Lincoln’s and they also will continue the cycle. So if you were to think of it that way, being a teacher is not really the most boring job description after all. Just think of your teacher as people affecting the course of your own, planting knowledge into our heads for us to harvest in the future, and finally using them in our lives. Now should THAT deserve respect? And besides, without your teacher where could you possibly be in the future? ■
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BY ANDREI TRIZ PATUPAT
People tend to dislike things they are not good at. The beauty of math can be caught up by the lack of ability to understand and solve problems. Thus, the appreciation for it is often missing. As a solution to this, HRC has been using MathScore to motivate Rosarians to learn new skills. MathScore is a world class math ian is annually given a MathScore practice program proven to increase account and is required to obtain a students’ test scores. It was devel- certain number of points depending oped by MIT graduates over 10 years on the math teacher. In order to help ago and is based in California. teachers assess their students’ math MathScore focuses on math prac- skills, pretests are done at the begintice for grades 1 through Algebra I. ning of every school year. By the end Each year level has recommended of the year, the top student per year topics based on the Common Core level are awarded with medals and Math Standard which provides a con- while the top five with certificates. sistent, clear understanding of what Recently, MathScore EduFighter students are expected to learn in a was launched in HRC. It is one of the specific year level. The critical think- only math games which provides the ing topics focus on understanding right motivation to help students who concepts, problem solving in real want to become better at math. In world situations, and measurement several anonymous surveys, 80% of while the basic computation topics the students think that MathScore focus on number crunching and also EduFighter is awesome and some algebraic manipulation. even said that it is the best math Students from schools who are game they have ever played. registered to MathScore master simMany people give up so easily ple concepts first then advance to the after a few tries of solving math probmore complex concepts that builds lems just because they do not do well upon the simple ones. They will gain in it. Somehow it has become socially points which will promote them to the acceptable to be bad in math but stunext rank by answering timed math dents should not be satisfied with tests. that. Practice is an essential way in Not much is known about the ex- improving one’s skills in math. act number of schools which use this In MathScore, students do not program, but it is apparent that this is only get promoted but also level his being used in at least hundreds of skills up. MathScore does not teach schools throughout the United States concepts and techniques, therefore it as well as in a few other countries cannot replace textbooks or teachers, such as the Philippines. but it could help students through a For three years now, each Rosar- fun way of practicing math. ■
The BEADS October-November 2013
Photos by Aizel Jane Panotes and Rixie Bernasor
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BY JUVILYN DIRECTO AND MARNIE JARANILLA
Most of the High school students of Holy Rosary College (HRC), who have not entered the CAT (Citizenship Advancement Training) course yet, share this misconception that it is purely military training. But, what is CAT in HRC, really? Or more importantly, what is the significance of CAT as an organization in the school? The CAT course lives to instill and and always be early.” significant events like Graduations, enhance discipline, respect, loyalty, From a grander perspective, the Recognitions, Intramurals, Foundation self-confidence, bravery, commitment, CAT as an organization, however, is Week, PRISSA, etc. Not only that, it and fellow-feeling among its mem- known to be one which also aims to even participates in events outside of bers. These are qualities that are cru- help the school in all the means it can. Holy Rosary College. cial in life, hence the establishment. CAT is important because they For many cadets who have been For Bea Satsatin, a junior who under- help the Student Government and taking up the program, the CAT is fun. goes this training, participating in this teachers when it comes to cellphone Sadness and happiness, one can feel program will change you personally. It inspections, and wearing of proper it here. When you are doing this, you will develop your self-discipline, or- uniform. They are like the police or can also realize that this is your last ganization, time management, and military of the school. They also facili- chapter of being a high school stuleadership. Satsatin also said that tate the school. It is eminent that the dent. In terms of representing the CAT is fun. You can find new pals. school frequently holds a mass, school and upholding certain qualities According to her, “Is CAT hassle through such, CAT officers, trainees which Rosarians should possess by to my studies? Yes and No. Yes be- and cadets help by organizing the selflessly serving the school and concause my time for studying and train- gymnasium, offering help to the tinually being active, the CAT, with its ing shares. No, because it’s fun, it has teachers, and keeping the students values such as honor and loyalty, many activities, and also it changed behaved. It helps in organizations, proves itself worthy of establishment me a lot. It made me organize myself preparations and participations during and preservation. ■
RESEARCH AND WRITE-UPS PROVIDED BY HRC CAT BATCH 2014
The Philippine National Defense Act enacted the organization of a military training program for college and high school students to reinforce the Reserve Component of the Philippine Armed Forces.
During the American Occupation, one of the first ROTC units was formed at the University of the Philippines in 1912.
During World War II, 80000 cadets and cadettes proved their worth in the field and organized guerilla movements to continue the fight even after the surrender of the Philippines.
10 On September 6 a number of Rosarians exhibited their vocal prowess in the Communication Arts Department-spearheaded “The Voice: Ang Tinig ng Rosarian” singing contest, which highlighted this year’s Buwan ng Wika Celebration.
The contestants: Lance Ira, Mara Dulog, Aizel Jane Panotes, Alyssa Malapitan, Joven Bay, and Cleo Vierneza performed first on stage. On the other hand, Ron Yanza, Matthew Malabuyoc, Robey Lagazo, Paulynn Cantos, JA Darauay, and Alyssa Manalang.
Fortissimo BY JOHN LOYD DE TROZ PHOTOS TAKEN BY JOHN LOYD DE TROZ AND JOSEPH REMOLACIO
First Runner-up Mara Dulog (III - Priestley) singing “Lipad ng Pangarap” by Dessa.
Second Runner-up Paulynn Cantos (7 - Edison) singing “Patuloy ang Pangarap” by Angeline Quinto.
Matthew Malabuyoc (7 - Galileo), champion, receiving his award from the judges (from left) Ms. Jill Beato Alviar, Mr. Jart Resurreccion, and Mr. Michael Gabriel.
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The BEADS October-November 2013
BY JOHN LOYD DE TROZ
In celebration of Nutrition Month this past July, the Holy Rosary College High School Department conducted its annual Cooking Contest. This year, students from all year levels brought out the many cooking utensils and recipes from their cookbooks and repertoires to concoct some delicious and nutritious full-course meals.
The above photo shows the judges of said contest: (from left) Mr. Gil Pambid, Ms. Leonora Torre, Ms. Thelma De Jesus, and Mr. Ruben Lambino.
12 10
BY VERLIN ENTENA
After a Sunday breakfast, while Dad scans through the pages of the fresh newspaper and while my sisters chow down on a few sandwiches, Mom suddenly thinks about going to the mall. Of course, she has to think about it since it is extremely expensive to do go there. Even though I am no longer at the dining room, I quickly rush back to confirm the diffused messages I had overheard from far away. It is official: it will very well be one of these days when I would get to see the nice, colorful toys again. The cries and sentiments of longing that I had expressed the moment we stepped out of that same mall a few weeks ago have finally been heard. It was about a few minutes past ous air conditioners, there appeared a buying them the newest, coincidentalone o’clock in the afternoon, after the festival in my eyes. The place literally ly most expensive wares, I, on the whole family had eaten lunch and had had everything: shoes, bags, shirts, other hand, would rarely find myself gotten ready to go. I jumped aboard socks, underwear, and lots of contrap- asking for anything. It was a mystery our violet jeep and away we went. tions of different shapes and sizes. to me why I have become so indifferLess than an hour away from our Not to mention, there was something ent about it, even if my parents would house in Balibago, the closest mall to about this shopping mall set-up which offer to buy me something. us which had ever existed was SM had almost every shopper hooked into Little did I know that staring at one Southmall over in Las Piñas. As I sat everything they see. of my favorite superhero’s action figthere at the back, unable to move a The stroll began to get tedious, ure took me some fifteen minutes. muscle inside the violet sardine can, I but eventually, after a long afternoon, I Eventually, the other fifteen minutes I knew nothing could be better than to spotted a sizable orange illumination actually spent looking at an endless enjoy a day at Toy Kingdom, which originating from a few blocks away. As array of toys seemed as if it were sevwas the most fun place on earth in my I moved closer and closer to that light, eral hours. Visiting the entire kingdom meager estimation. I began to feel the bass and treble of is a treat in itself, but you can only Going to the mall is fun. Some high-pitch nursery rhymes permeating keep looking at them for so long. men, including Dad and I, cheered my ears. I finally found myself looking Oddly enough, I would just be looking and watched intently what appears to and passing by the slide in the en- at the toys, then intently looking at the be an action-packed movie through a trance and alas, I was in Toy King- back of the packages to see other gigantic 80-inch widescreen television dom. Indeed, I basically ran around, exciting ones, only to find that those being paraded in the appliance center, swiftly familiarizing myself with each same pictured ones are also within my along with a sticker on its top right part of the store. The left side iwa full physical reach. After basking in their side with some five or six numbers of peculiar playthings, which some magnificence, I would place the toys prominently tagged along as if it were older kids are intently looking at. back into the shelves, as if I had never the price of the set. Some, including There were complicatedly colored touched them. I walked away for no my considerably older sisters, would blocks forming some sort of high- clear reason. rush towards the inside of a store technology contraptions, there were The sun was apparently about to which sells bargain clothing. I could also some cubes and other ridiculous set when we stepped out of SM not figure out why they have this objects which seemingly leave every- Southmall. I helped grab what few strong affinity towards different- one’s minds severely boggled. The purchases I could and placed them at colored t-shirts and denim pants that it right side was radiantly pink not only the back of the car. Sitting at the back seemed to me that they would stay because there are shelves and of the car again, it was relatively more inside for hours, trying on some ridicu- shelves of dolls, but also because the difficult to move my feet, with a few lous clothes. I never really bought into girls staring at the toys were, for the hindering plastic bags practically imwhy they had affinity for such rather most part, wearing the same color. mobilizing me. It was cozy nonetheunnecessary things. Nevertheless, I Most importantly, the center had less. As Dad drove into the sunset, patiently waited outside, walking all the action figures that any boy and Mom and my sisters laughed around while already imagining, as would ever want to have. From leg- about their exciting shopping advenwell as I can, of the fun which lay endary superheroes to those creepy- ture, I was empty-handed, yet wearing ahead. looking villains, they had it all. In the a smile on my face. I have everything I As we took a seemingly endless middle of this toy euphoria which I would ever want and need right here stroll all over SM Southmall, while thought would never end, I found it with me. In the end, the enchanting breathing in the cool, synthetic breeze very odd that unlike the other kids who trip to Toy Kingdom becomes an enbeing spurted out by those humong- desperately drag their parents into lightening one, as well. ■
The BEADS October-November 2013
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Last Dance BY NICOLE OBVIAR
I can still remember the night How it sparkled like magic How the stars shine so bright How you held me in your arms Like you never want to let me go I can still remember How we walked to the center As the time stops We dance like nobody is watching How the spotlight shone on us I remember how you looked on that night The way you smiled like it was the best night of your life As we looked into each other’s eyes You and I fell in love quickly with one click It was like the night of love
The night of love quickly changed, As you collapsed into darkness The night of magic become the night of tragic You and I will never be together again For you have been exiled into darkness I remember how we walk the fragile line I never thought I see you break My tears run down, when I see you shatter Seeing you broke like shattered glass Makes my heart hurt so much. I never thought it would be our last song Our last touch and last words Nothing will ever change my memory with you I will never forget you Till then, you will always be my last dance.
BY MITCHELLE JESALLYN BALLADARES
So I was tasked to write an article. No biggie. Should be fun, right? But not when you don't really have a specific topic in mind. Not because of the shortage of the things that can be written about, but because of too many things that I can write about that it’s hard to settle on one. It's weird, you know, that whenever you're not writing, inspiration strikes, but whenever you are, your muse seem to play hide and seek with you. It could be really frustrating at times, especially when beating a deadline, but most of the time it could pose as a challenge for a writer. What to write about, really? Well, one can write about absolutely anything. From red ants crawling up a wall to the moisture on a glass sitting beside your laptop as you work on a piece of literature. The key of finding your muse is to simply write. There’s no such thing as not being able to write something, even a word. All you have to do is grab a pen and start. Just sitting there staring into the void won't help you at all. Write. The pen won't move itself and do the work for you. The secret of some of the best authors is that they write every day. They don't just think and plan, they make things happen. A great idea will forever be just an idea without action. And a war won’t be a war without someone pulling the trigger first. You see, writing isn't that hard because you cannot write about something or someone that doesn't demand to be written. I can’t simply write about giraffes when I don't know the first thing about them, well, except that some of my Facebook friends are supposedly morphing into them at night. Instead, I am writing about something I know of, and that is writing literature. That’s why most authors and poets rely on their personal experiences, achievements and beliefs when it comes to their crafts because those are the things they know and the things they believe in. Therefore, those are the things that demand them to write about. I am no expert on the topic, but as someone that is fascinated in most,
if not all, kinds of literature, I think I am making a pretty decent article out of it. Writing is beautiful, especially for those who appreciate its art. All those unexpressed emotions and unvoiced feelings bleeding on every page, the entirety of the things one cannot dare to express through the words known by one's mouth, and the way the words are flawlessly woven like fine silk, how a single letter completes the whole piece like a different shade of color painted on canvas. It was breathtaking, how a writer can share a part of his being, how can he immortalize a piece of his very soul and somehow managing it to be placed on paper, allowing anyone to criticize it, trample on it, reject it or appreciate it like it was the most beautiful thing people ever invented. Despite a number of sleepless nights, I find writing healthy for someone's mind. It gives us an understanding of the things around us, especially of life and its apparent and consistent unfairness. Writing, especially in novels, gives the writer a unique outlook on the world, strong beliefs and principles and a different, if somewhat higher perspective in life. Being a writer is similar to marrying the whole universe: it's a lifetime commitment, for writers will always be in love with the world, always in fascination with the things that transpire around them, always interested in every single thing, big or small, possible or impossible. ■
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The HRC Debate Society held a seminar-workshop last June 5 to 7 to teach aspiring debaters to be able to develop their public speaking skills. This seminar is both for the benefit of the old members of the Debate Society and for new members, as well. (by Mara Luiza Dulog) “SHADOW” DANCING. Guest choreographers and HRC Dance Company members show the participants some of their own dance techniques.
HRC Dance Company Adviser Mr. Geoff Lozada spearheaded “Dance Till You Drop” 2, a summer dance workshop open to all Rosarians. Students were able to work with guest choreographers and were able to perform with them and alumni members of HRC DC in a recital on April 20. (by JA Darauay)
The high school department celebrated its annual Acquaintance Party with this year's theme "Rosarians Going Green at 35" last June 28. The said event was held at the school's gymnasium. All students wore smart casual with the touch of green. Also included in the program was the induction of the officers of HRC’s student organizations. (by Bea Satsatin)
Last May 22, 23 and 24, Teatro Rosario had its theater seminar where over 30 students, both from the elementary and high school department, participated. The seminar has taught the students the basic do's and don'ts of theater acting and script writing. The seminar was led by Mr. Tony Yanza, the current president of Sining Santa Rosa, the official theater group of the Santa Rosa, Laguna. (by Phoebe Joco)
BY JA DARAUAY Holy Rosary College had its first inter-school dance workshop, Dance Factor, through the coordination of Mr. Geoff Lozada and the HRC Dance Company, which provided the upwards of 200 participants an opportunity to study different dance genres such as funk and hip-hop under the supervision of professional choreographers last October 5. Held at the school’s gymnasium, HRC Dance Factor ran from 8AM7PM. The first period was instructed by Jigz Valerio, dance master of Big Shift Studios and a performer on ABS -CBN's ASAP variety show while the second period was taught by Hideki Magtoto, who represented the Philippines in many international dance competitions.
During the third period, the students were grouped and were given their own pieces for them to make their own production numbers. While on stage during the event, Mr. Lozada expressed his gratitude to the people who participated in the event. He also announced that due to its undeniable success, Dance Factor will have its second year. ■
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) Student Government Mayor Hilarion Yanza II stated that certain discretionary funds should be abolished because it has become susceptible to a myriad of forms of corruption. "Ngayon ang nangyayari kasi, hindi ginagamit ng wasto yung pera ng bayan. Gumagawa ng Ghost Projects ang mga governors para masabing nagagasta sa maayos ung pera, pero hindi naman. Nabubulsa lang. So i-abolish na lang kung ganoon," said Yanza. Citizenship Advancement Training (CAT) Corps Commander Marinelli Jaranilla echoed similar sentiments while highlighting the fact that the funds contributed by the people should inure to the benefit of the people as well. "It (PDAF) is just making way for greedy politicians to make more mon-
ey and steal from the people who actually work for the said money. Why would the government continue to waste millions on something no Filipino under this same government is benefiting from? Might as well just throw millions of money into a river, because that's how it is for working people anyway," said Jaranilla. Meanwhile, Young Environmental Stewards and Interact Club President Diego Mina also echoed the same, but he also stressed the positive intentions that should be associated with discretionary funds. “It's something with noble intentions yet has been abused by greedy politicians. So yes, abolish it. ABOLISH IT! I believe that it should be abolished because it has been abused too much by corrupt politicians," said Mina. ■
BY ANDREI TRIZ PATUPAT AND ELISHA LUZANO
Various HRC Rhinos teams bagged medals in the recently held Private Schools Sports Association (PRISSA) Level and Batang PinoyLuzon Leg competitions. PRISSA Meet The PRISSA Meet was held on September 2013 in different schools across Santa Rosa. The Boys’ and Girls’ Volleyball Teams took home gold in said competition. Among the members of the Rhinos Table Tennis Team which also bagged home four golds during said event were Carl Siladan, Iyan Alvarez, Daniela Papag, Dunhill Papag, and Jhazzerine Albonia. Representatives of the the HRC Lawn Tennis Team also bagged a number of awards during the PRISSA Meet, with a number of its players receiving more than one. Melanie Faye Dizon and Princess Lorben Ma-
rie Catindig won gold for doubles. Likewise, Dizon won silver and Catindig won gold for their respective girls singles categories. Batang Pinoy Last October 15-16, the HRC Girls’ Volleyball Team struck gold in Iba, Zambales for Batang Pinoy Luzon Leg. The HRC Girls’ Volleyball Team went home as champions with Frances Dominique Bartolazo as the Most Valuable Player, Carlota Hernandez as Best Attacker, Juliet Catindig as Best Blocker, Dana Alyssa Disquitado as Best Setter. Ms. Lerma Giron was the coach of said team and she accompanied her team during the event. ■
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Diagram retrieved from the Official Website of HRC <http://hrcsrl.edu.ph>
The BEADS October-November 2013
FIONA FAYE MALAPITAN fionamalapitan_14@yahoo.com
The Holy Rosary College Boys’ Volleyball Team, under the tutelage of their coach, Mr. Alvin Manuyag, have been on a rampage as of late, reaching their proverbial pot of gold having won three (and counting) major volleyball tournaments this school year. These victories seem to be in continuation of their successful campaigns within the last couple of years. The HRC Volleyball team made a move on their Private Schools Sports Association (PRISSA) Games held at the Holy Rosary College Gymnasium, sometime on September 2013. They went up against familiar foes such as Meridian Educational Institution in what were (as I understood) highly competitive matchups, and went undefeated at seven wins and no losses en route to their domination of the tournament. Next, they moved on to the League of Southern Manila Schools (LSMS) Competition held at the Brent International School Covered Court from September to October 2013, where they competed against heavy-
weights such as National University and De La Salle University-Lipa, among others. Even though they are admittedly not as equally experienced as their opponents, they still worked hard to hold their own and end up with a respectable 6-3 record. They then made waves in the Batang Pinoy games, a National Sports Competition Program which encourages young Filipino Athletes to compete in their selected sports. The team traveled to Iba, Zambales to bring their talents to the tournament held on October 1519. They ended up ranking first during the elimination stage in yet another successful campaign. When asked about their secret to success this year as well as the previous years wherein they experienced racking up win after win, Coach Alvin says that per the team, his players definitely gave their best every single tournament and it merely pays off during all of these tournaments. He also mentioned that they benefited greatly through the leadership of his best players during those three games,
Manuel Cordero and Ian Punongbayan. “Para sa akin ang dahilan ng aming pagkapanalo [sa mga tournament] ay syempre, teamwork kasi yun naman talaga ang kailangan para manalo sa grupo-grupong mga laro,” said Coach Alvin during an interview. I think it is to nobody’s surprise that this year is once again home to another string of major victories for our Boys’ Volleyball Team, which has come to also benefit greatly with the long-term commitment that Coach Alvin gives his players day in and day out. I agree with him that teamwork has been the key for them, coupled with the players’ good team chemistry due to their camaraderie both on and off the court. In the end, one thing is for certain, the Boys’ Volleyball Team is here to stay. Personally, I am also sure that they have many more tournaments to dominate this year. From one avid volleyball fan to another, let us sit back, relax, and watch them do what they do best. ■
FASTBREAK! A quick look at some of the fast-paced basketball action during the 2013 HRC Intramurals. (Photo by Joseph Remolacio)
PAUL JOHN CAY pauljohncay@yahoo.com
Slowly but surely, table tennis continues to gain popularity amongst students here in Holy Rosary College, and helping this cause is the fact that the HRC Table Tennis Team has been able to accumulate victories in numerous competitions outside school, which include the “Batang Pinoy” and Brent Invitational competitions. Among the standouts in this team are Carl Siladan, Iyan Alvarez, Daniela Papag, Dunhill Papag, Jhazzerine Albonia, among others. This begs the question: will this trend continue over time, from a longterm point of view? Or will the dream of being able to establish its own stronghold in division, regional, and national competitions remain but a dream? In my opinion, I think there is a lot of potential right now to break through as one of the great upstarts in high school level table tennis but their capacity to do so greatly hinges on their ability to obtain more skilled players and equipments, particularly their own practice facility inside campus so they can train more effectively. Considering current conditions, facing a roster that could use improvement depth-wise and the lack of
equipment and facilities, it could be argued that their ability to train and, more importantly, develop as a team have a long way to go towards being ideal and optimal. It is quite understandable that these are the conditions for them at this point as relatively speaking, the table tennis program in school is still at its infancy stage, and it is expected that this issue will definitely be addressed through time. In spite of the odds being away from their favor in some aspects, the Table Tennis Team still manages to bring home chunks and chunks of bacon en route to favorably representing HRC in said sport. This says a lot about the dedication and hard work that the players and their coaches are exerting in order to develop the former’s potential, which is highly commendable in my opinion. With such promise, potential, and an apparent willingness and openness to develop, accompanied by meeting its needs to grow logistically in proportion to their growth as a team, table tennis in HRC is definitely on the rise. At this point, they are just merely setting the table, so to speak, and the best is yet to come. ■
BY JASTINE BAYLOSIS
A number of Holy Rosary College varsity team members took some time from their training schedules as with The Hunger Games as this year’s theme, the Student Government had its annual Leadership Training Seminar last May 27-30. This year’s four-day LTS was filled physical activities and challenges such as hunting and racing. The seminar also featured the movie itself on the first day to help tributes, LTS’ participants, to understand why the Student Government chose Hunger Games as the theme. Like the past LTS, there were also guest speakers for each day and this year they had past valedictorians and former SG Mayors Carl Agripa, Verlin Entena and Mariangela Obviar to share lectures about what true leadership is. On the fourth day, the tributes showcased their own little variety show and then proceeded to the grounds to have the first bonfire in three years. Other student organization officers were also in attendance for said event. ■