THE OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATION OF ST.

CLEMENT ACADEMY JUNE-FEBRUARY 2011

The Power of Commitment

by: Ms. Annabelle Sacdalan

For many people, mediocrity is the norm. They want to do as little as they possibly can and still survive.
Are we one of them? Are we exerting an extra effort to do what is right? Are we willing to pay the price to do
the right thing?

For some teachers, the teaching profession is just a mere task, a routine, and nothing more but a simple
duty. It is quite saddening to see that most teachers that I used to meet everyday do not show enthusiasm for
teaching. Come to imagine, if all teachers are carrying such mind set, what will happen to our educational
system? Are we still capable of developing our youth to become competent leaders of their generation? Isn’t it
that the major percentage of this nation’s success depends on the quality of education that every school offers?
The truth is, when you have an excellent spirit, it shows up in the quality of your output, and in the manner you
put things in action.
Here in SCA, we do not just go through the motions of life, and as one, we are all trying to bring fresh
and interesting thoughts into the table that will secure a complete and proper solution to every challenge and
threat that this fast changing world offers.

Last May 2010, the management, faculty, and staff of SCA held a two day outing and seminar in
Fontana Leisure Park and Hotel, inside Clarkfield, Pampanga. The first day was spent for swimming and
relaxation. It was a total fun for everyone, but our objective there was not only to feel the burning fire of
summer but also to ensure that everyone remains motivated and that professional pride is injected into the work
force. The seminar which was conducted by UPLIFT MOVEMENT FOUNDATION, during 2 nd day of our
adventure revitalized our enthusiasm to see that the bigger picture depends on our hands as educators. In fact,
the activities that we underwent during our team building made us realized the power of true leadership, and the
real significance of working as a team; a united team that must set the highest possible standards.

Based on the essay entitled “Teacher! Teacher”, there are three gifts that a teacher can give his students:
information, knowledge, and wisdom. We must say-YES! but a teacher must not forget that there is one thing
more that he can share his students, and that is his own LIFE. Unlike any other professions, our tasks as
educators do not seem to end by the time we got home. Whether we resist or not, it continues. As a matter of
fact, it will only stop by the time we ceased breathing. That’s why, if we only treat teaching as a mere task to be
done, mind you – you would only feel exhaustion. But if we are committed to excellence, we would be glad to
put forth the extra effort.

We, as educators, must perform our responsibilities with some fire. Let us make our life create an impact
to our students. Let us stir up the gift that is within us. Do not settle for being an average. Do not let the lack of
motivation squelch your passion for teaching.

One thing is for sure, we will never go wrong by taking the high road and by doing more than what is
necessary.
 5O YEARS FOR ST. CLEMENT ACADEMY!
By: Darwin d. clemente

The title of this article may sound like a BHAG (Big, Hairy, and Audacious Goal) as commonly used in
the corporate world, but yes, St. Clement Academy can now go 50 years and beyond with the support of its
students, parents, and of course, with the blessing of the Almighty God. Very recently, our St. Clement
Academy was given Government Recognition for its high school course. We not only got our government
recognition this year, what’s more interesting is that, we’re the first among all the applicant schools in the entire
Region III to be given recognition for the year 2011 that is why our recognition number is S-001, Series of
2011.

Now we can more confidently claim that our school’s facilities, teaching and support team, and
management team are over and above what the Department of Education mandates. Now we can be more proud
that all courses being offered by our school, from Pre-school to High School are all government recognized.

So what does this mean for the students and parents of St. Clement Academy? Well, simply put it, our
official student record and the diploma that our school is issuing will be accepted in all Colleges and
Universities that our graduating students would wish to study.

One more good news, our school will now have its official school hymn which shall be performed for
the first time during the coming Recognition and Graduation Day.

In the own words of one of my favorite saints

By: Darwin D. Clemente

I came across a good book one time I was at National Bookstore. It was a book entitled, In My
Own Words. The book contains some popular speeches and quotations from a modern day saint,
Mother Teresa of Calcutta. The book came to mind as I would like to give the graduating students
some inspiring words that can guide them through the challenges that they will be facing in the future.

Now, allow me to share this famous line attributed to Mother Teresa called ANYWAY:

“People are often unreasonable, irrational and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them anyway.”

UNVEIL THE PROOF

by: Cziequena De Guzman
 SMALL BUT TERRIBLE – WE’VE PROVEN IT ONCE AGAIN. Some people may say that
our school is small and young in terms of student population and its years of existence. St. Clement Academy
though young, has been home for many students. The holistic approach which is used by the teachers in this
school seems to be one of the reasons why St. Clement Academy is growing bigger and getting more successful.
We cannot deny the fact that St. Clement Academy is really improving and can cope with the flow today. Do
you want some evidences? Just take a look at the achievements of St. Clement Academy last Malolos City
Private School Associations (MACIPRISA) Meet 2010.

The badminton team of the school smashed to the top as Jervin Dyler Carlos and Rasmine Jane Carlos
were declared as Champions for the elementary singles competition. Both Jervin and Rasmine also became
champion in their respective tournaments during the recently concluded Malolos City Athletic Competition.
Last February 21-24, 2011, Jervin and Rasmine also represented the Division of Malolos City during the
Central Luzon Athletic Association Meet (CLARAA). Rasmine was declared champion for the Badminton
Elementary Girls (Category B), while Jervin won the Badminton Elementary Boys Doubles competition. Both
of them will now be part of the Central Luzon Delegation to the Palarong Pambansa. On the other hand, Yrian
Daniel Carlos bagged the silver medal for the high school singles and Raven Chloe Carlos and Yannique Noah
Carlos landed on the 2nd runner-up spot for the elementary singles. Sofia Marzan and Aris Dex Celestino both
landed on the 1st runner-up spot for the taekwondo elementary. John Carlo Adriano bagged 2 gold medals for
the swimming competition. The battle on academics were held on the 2nd day of the event. Mana G. Cruz placed
3rd for the General Information, Patricia Catahan placed also 3rd for the Mathematics, both came from level I.
Trisha Danielle Guiao landed on the 2 nd spot for the General Information category, Lemuel Deinla placed 5 th for
the Science category and Ieva Francheska Agustin placed 6th for the Mathematics Category all from the level II.
Jerameel Delos Reyes landed on the 4th place for the Science category from the high school level. The last day
was for the cultural meet. Ma. Krissell Marcelino landed on the 6th place for tula pre-elem, Rico Emmanuel Griño
landed on the 7th place for the tula level II and Zia Danica Marcos bagged the silver medal for tula high school
level. Ronachelle Fajardo placed on the 7 th for the declamation level I, Janine Dagta bagged the 2 nd place for the
declamation level II and Czarina Christelle Alyannah Celis landed on the 6 th place for the declamation high
school level. Trixia Tobias placed 6th for the poster making contest.

Let us put it into comparison. Last school year (2009-2010) St. Clement Academy garnered SEVEN
medals from the MACIPRISA Meet that came with a back to back title for the search for Little Miss
MACIPRISA. This school year, the school garnered FIFTEEN medals from the recent MACIPRISA Meet,
TWO medals in the Malolos City Athletic Competition, and another TWO during the CLARAA Meet. Friend,
such great things cannot be accomplished if God’s favor did not surround us like a shield. It only proves that
people’s perception do not matter if we will persevere and if we will stay in an attitude of faith because God can
open doors and he can change circumstances on our behalf.

FEATURE
____________________________________________
“An Eye from a Neophyte”
by: Michael Ryan Giron

Learning and acquiring knowledge, skills, and confidently applying it, this is what it takes to give
education a worth. The following are the purposes of our everyday activities in school: to learn, to explore and
to experience, but knowing the principles of learning, it comes from “teaching”. It is a responsibility that every
teacher holds-to serve as our second parents and to share with us their experience, application, and values. A
good teacher teaches from the heart not from the book. They emit their teachings through intelligent explanation
and logical reasoning.
 St. Clement Academy is the school where I want my experiences to be nurtured. I am expecting more
concern from the gentle touch of the process called teaching and learning. Throughout my school years in my
elementary, I conclude that all my ideals and knowledge are polished through the educational system of my
present school. I have witnessed the things that the teachers, management, coordinators, and staffs of this school
possess- a greatly satisfying manner by the way they communicate, work, and practice.

Now that I am in this school, I can now compare the order of before and after. I am now in favor for the
appearance that completely coordinates the only purpose of school and its mission. I have learned how to use
my time, because I want my every single minute be used productively. St. Clement Academy is providing me
the optimum way of learning.

I am expecting that this school would be a place where community can be experienced, where we can
live without intimidation of each other, where learning can be based on logical and critical approaches, where
we can have a free exchange of ideas and the actual world to live in.

__________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS
First Time Ever
by: Carmela Feliciano

Have you experienced leaving your comfort zone for a reason? If you do not explore the world you
would never see the real paradise that is just around us, sometimes we can’t experience the beauty of the world
because our day as a student is crowded by the demands of mundane routines. Another thing is that we should
always seek the consent of our beloved parents. There is a saying that graduating students are prone to accident.
That is one thing that hinders our parents to give the sweetest – YES, you may join!!! Perhaps, our parents
realized that prayers can move mountains. So with that, we should be very grateful. Education would be more
effective if it is experienced and explored.

St. Clement Academy held its ever first youth camp for the graduating students in Earthaven eco-
community or “Tahanan ng Kalikasan” last September 24-25, 2010 in Brgy. Silangan, San Mateo, Rizal which
is located directly at the foot of Sierra Madre Mountains. The scenery we have seen was beautiful. The view
was breath taking, accelerating and relaxing. The fresh air, trees, firm green colored leaves and water falls made
us amazed because of the unusual view that we see in urban places. I can say that the place is a real PARADISE
on Earth.

There were activities prepared by the staffs of Earthaven. The Grade 6-Loyalty, Unity and Yr. IV-St.
Paul were divided into three groups. These are the Falling Leaves, Fighting Warriors and United Team. Every
team experienced the unforgettable Mud Crawl, Catch the Piglet, Rope works, Black Hole, and Rappelling.
Even though the games made our clothes as the dirtiest clothes we ever had, we still continue to face the
challenges. Every one participated on all games and did his best to show his cooperation to his group. We also
had our bonfire presentation for the announcement of winners.

But the hardest part for the some students is to find signal for their cell phones. Every time that I hear
the word “Signal!” , everyone would get their cell phone and try to text or reach their loved ones. We were not
also allowed to eat junk foods. The foods are all organic.

It was a great experience for everybody and we learned to work as a team. We learned how to be
sensitive to the needs of others. We became more concern about the importance of our environment. We learned
how to love and appreciate the beauty of life, as well as the captivating beauty of nature.

A Big Help for You and Me

by: Allana Margo Garcia & Millicent Kylie Maniquis

Growing plants must be taken cared of and protected to ensure that they grow healthy. Trees are one of
the livelihood opportunities for a basically agricultural country like ours. We all know that the trees are very
useful to us. Trees do not only give us fruits but it also provides shade, shelter, reduce pollution, prevent flood,
and soil erosion.
St. Clement Academy helped the graduating students to understand the importance of the trees in human
lives and a great opportunity that has been given to them before they leave the school as they underwent an
activity called tree planting . Every student from the graduating classes was given a particular group so that they
can show their teamwork. While doing the “Tree Planting Project”, every participant from Grade 6 and 4 th year
high school showed a smile on their faces, merely because they knew that the things that they were doing can
create a big impact to our community, and more so to the world .

We are hoping that after 10 years, the trees that we planted will grow well. It is important for us that the
things that we did are appreciated. Once we visit our school again we will bear in mind the things we have
learned from the school especially the things they taught us in taking care of our environment. So, it is
important to take good care of the trees because it is a big help for you and me.

Nurture, Nature
by: Shaira Joy Paclarin

Every month of August we are celebrating the Buwan ng Wika. This is to celebrate and remember the
importance of language as an art. St. Clement Academy held activities such as: Talumpating handa,
Talumpating di- handa, Tula, Slogan making, poster making, isahang awit and solving riddles. Last August 31,
we held a program for the said celebration wherein students showcased their talents and tried their best to make
it to the top.

Luckily, deserving students won in every contest that was held. Kristal Ann Moya a simple girl with a
simple voice topped the solo singing contest for the high school level. She gave and showed us her wonderful
voice that touched our hearts when she sang “Lipad ng Pangarap”. Go! Go! Go! Seniors! On the other hand,
Nadine Yzzabel Pascual won the solo singing contest for the elementary level. She sang “Isang lahi” that made
us amazed, a little girl with a powerful voice.

A strong competition on extemporaneous speech was held last August 16, 2010, where students from the
high school level competed for the top spots. Zia Danica Marcos, a senior student, topped the competition as
she shared her ideas with our great judges and showed us her wide knowledge. Czarina Christelle Alyannah
Celis won the second place. She performed in front of the judges without any sign of nervousness. Allana
Margo Garcia and I, Shaira Joy Paclarin, were tied for the third place.

Going back to the elementary level. Eira Marie Bernando did a great job and showed us her talent in
reciting a poem. She also won as the one and only placer in slogan making competition. What a talented girl!!
Kevin Jazer Panganiban a graduating student topped the poster making contest. He has talented hands and
imaginative mind to create an artwork that would fit the event.

Pyke Jenny Culasino and Erin Elizabeth Reyes were tied as first placers in reciting a poem for the high
school level. Erin gave us a sample as she performed in the gymnasium in front of many and yes! She did a
wonderful job. She gave justice for that peace.

Our brain bled as we answer the given riddles for the day. It is quite hard so only a few of us
continuously answered the riddles. Proudly, one of the elementary students kept the patience to answer
everyday’s riddle and that was Alaiza Raine San Pedro. In the high school level John Paul Serrato, Joanna
Serrato, Princess Fetalbero, Janine Dayrit, Jessi Kyle Banag, and Wisdom Wayne won the contest.

It takes two to tango to win in those activities but everyone did their best not just to win but also to gain
knowledge and self confidence in joining contests. To the winners congratulations! For those who did not make
it on top, I am sure you can make it next time.

Buwan ng Wika serves as a month for remembering the greatness of our Filipino ancestors, but now it
seems so obvious that most of us were tied up with the flow of the new generation. The connection of nature to
our language seems so hard, but yes it has.

If you can take care of the language you have, then you can take care of your environment. If you can
proudly speak your language, then you can proudly get a broom and sweep off all the dirt in our world. If you
can save the essence of language you have, then you can save our environment.

Remember, no language and nature that are payable, keep it, save it!

Unforgettable Moments of the

School Choir
by: Carmela Paulene Lomotan

Enchanted Kingdom is a famous theme park in the Philippines. This is just like Disneyland that you can
see dynamic and thrilling rides. You can celebrate with your love ones here at Enchanted Kingdom, a magical
ambiance perfectly suited for birthdays, weddings, proms, debuts, and so much more. Your day will be fulfilled
with the fun and laughter here.

Last May 2, 2010, we had a choir outing. We requested to go to E.K and it was granted. We arrived at
E.K at 2 ‘o clock in the afternoon. At the moment, our groups had been separated to board the rides. We went
first to the Victoria Park. You can see there the Grand Carousel where we rode first. While the carousel was
moving we kept remembering the casts of ‘Stairway to Heaven” who were taken there. After that, we went to
Midway Boardwalk to ride the Roller Skaters. The line was too long. While we were waiting for our turn, we
were observing the reactions of the riders. Almost all were screaming so some of us wanted to back out, not
because they had no choice but because they were afraid to join us. Afterwards, we went to Portabello to ride
Flying Fiesta. This ride was so relaxing even if it is so high and fast because I felt that I was floating in the air.
Then, we went to Rialto Theater to watch “Speed Racer Grand Prix”. We were amazed because of the moving
chairs and it felt that you were the one who was in the race. After that, we went to Anchors Away, some of us
were afraid but we insisted that we should try. What we experienced was more than what we expected. Next, we
went to Rio Grande. I think we waited there for about half an hour because of very long line, but still we
enjoyed. Then we tried the wheel of faith. Our moves were counted because every time we moved, the gondola
where we are seated moved. We were nervous because we were just hanging there. After that, we took those
rides again and again. Then we got tired so we took a rest and bought foods to eat and enjoyed taking pictures.
While we were eating, Sir Darwin and his wife saw us and they invited us to ride the Jungle Log Jam and that
ride was so exciting. The finale was the fantastic fireworks display which we watched.

Time seems so fast. We arrived at about 11 in the evening. That was a very exhausting day but full of
fun. That was very unforgettable. I hope the next choir outing will be happy and full of laughter like this.
Because of this outing, we found out the weaknesses and strengths of each other. We also got closer to each
other.

With this experience, it gives me the true meaning of happiness, that happiness is a state of mind or
felling characterized by contentment, pleasure, satisfaction, and joy. It also makes me realize that “Life is not
measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moment that take our breath away.” It means that our
life is full of happiness and adventurous moments and we should measure our life here. Our life is full of
memorable things that we should enjoy.

EDITORIAL

Point of Realization
by: Czarina Christelle Alyannah S. Celis

Do you hate Filipinos for what happened last August 23, 2010? Well, should I enumerate the bad things
that Chinese people had done to us where not only eight people died? That scenario did not only happen here in
the Philippines. There is more abysmal situation in other countries. I don not say we are that good. I know the
policemen had also lapses that resulted to an indisputable shame that brought the country in to the limelight.

Let us go back to what happened. The Hong Thai Tourist bus occupied by Hong Kong nationals
was about to drop by to a mall to eat their lunch and afterward board their flight back to Hong Kong. This plan
did not happen because along their way to the mall, there was this person who introduced himself as an assigned
escort to their bus. Later on, he commandeered the bus; the man behind the hostage taking was Cap. Rolando
Mendoza. As we review what had happened, we can see that there were many lapses from the policemen and
media that contributed to the disgusting outcome of the event. The policemen and negotiators had no concrete
plan on how they would handle the situation. The media did not have the news black out that made the situation
rigorous. By the moment that his brother told him that the documents from the Ombudsman were only junk and
the policemen have not yet returned his firearm, Capt. Mendoza became more agitated and said that he will kill
all the Hong Kong nationals. This situation worsened as the media broadcasted live on the television the
arresting of his brother. There were gunshots heard from the bus that made the policemen and the SWAT cover
the situation. The unpreparedness of the rescue group is evidently seen as they were trying to break the glass
and open the door using a rope without knowing that there was an emergency door. After the policemen made
sure that the bus was out of harm, they entered and found some Hong Kong nationals and Cap. Mendoza
lifeless. They also found some survivors and they instantaneously sent them to the nearest hospital. As the
rescuers were entering the bus the crowd came near the bus just in a few seconds.

On that unpleasant incident we can see that there are many lapses from the people involved here.
On the side of the policemen they do not have a concrete plan. It seemed that they do not know what to do. The
communication line between the hostage taker and the negotiator was sometimes obstructed by other people
who were not part of the negotiating team. The instructions were not strictly followed. There was no news black
out. If ever there was news black out, this may have lessened the gravity of the situation. There is no crowd
control that led to one civilian being hit by a stray bullet. The government is now facing a deep bereavement
and they are also trying to solve what happened through a comprehensive investigation to come up with a report
to the Hong Kong government. The incident that happened should be an eye opening point that will lead the
policemen to train harder so that they will be equipped to handle this kind of incident. We should also open our
eyes that this incident happened because of the kind of justice that we have here in our country. This happened
because someone who was asking for a fair judgment and due process was not given a chance to defend
himself. We may say that the way he had done it was not good but we should accept the mere fact that what he
was fighting for was something worthy. I can confidently say that this is an isolated case. And it would be
unfair for us to be generalized as criminals. This case definitely needs a thorough investigation to give the
victims what is due them. Now, the big question is “FOR HOW LONG ARE WE GOING TO WAIT?”

And with that, I would like to edify the youth today and the youth of the future generations to
change the wheel of justice, let us make it faster and plausible. We can improve it! Let us move to a better
nation.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS

Bringing Wealth to Life by: Kamia Rose De Jesus

“Health is wealth” has been a hackneyed expression that tells about how important health is. The
celebration of nutrition month is one of our annual practices here at St. Clement Academy that reminds
everyone that a healthy child is absolutely a productive child. If your body has all the nutrients it needs to attain
its optimal function, performing your daily routines will become a simple arithmetic. Nutrition plays a big role
in maintaining good health. Without proper nutrition, our system will deteriorate fast and our body will not be
able to cope with different demands.
 The one hour celebration of St. Clement Academy of Nutrition Month was held last July 29,
2010. The activity started with a prayer which was led by Cziequiena De Guzman. This year’s theme “Sa
Pagkaing Tama at Sapat Wastong Timbang ni Baby ang Katapat” stresses that taking the right amount of food
will give us better health and fitness which was explained to us by Mrs. Marilou Bayarcal. She also added some
points to remember in keeping ourselves healthy and fit. The students from grade 6 loyalty rendered a
performance to the tune of “Baby” by Justine Bieber that seemed to wake up the crowd. The performance from
2nd Year St. John students was also applauded. They showed us that our daily exercise can be put in to a catchy
dance move. Ma. Krisell Ann Moya serenaded the crowd as she sang “Tila”. Before the culminating activity,
the T.L.E. department prepared some contests. An essay from “Rain Forest” also known as Alaiza Raine San
Pedro topped the essay writing contest in the elementary department. The poster made by Alena Valenzuela
showed artistry that made her bag the first place for the poster making contest in the high school department.
After the announcement of winners, Mr. Rommel Cruz made his closing remarks.

Our school is not celebrating Nutrition Month just to have fun and come up with contest but
rather, we know that every year they are preparing this activity for us to become more aware about our health.
Every year’s theme is the reflection of the true essence of nutrition. We must inculcate in our mind that
nutritious food need not to be very expensive. Remember that proper fitness goes well with good manners and
etiquette. Fitness also involves your mind and your heart because after all, a person is NOT JUST A BODY.

Yes Ma’am, Yes Sir!

By: Jefferlyn Joy Dela cruz

BECOME A CADET OFFICER-TAKE THE ADVANCE COURSE. If you want to

develop and apply your leadership skills, you can volunteer for the Cadet Officers’ Candidate
Course (COCC). The cadet officers’ life includes a structured regimen of physical fitness,
military science and tactics, and leadership development.

Before we joined this activity, we made sure that we are physically fit and we can do the
responsibilities and duties of a COCC. We didn’t join this because we want points for the co-
curricular activities and to be popular in the community, the reason why we joined was simply
because we want to explore something, to be a disciplined person, to have a good training in our
life and to experience being a cadet.

We had our first meeting with the cadet officers. They introduced themselves and their
positions to us. Then our S3 officer told us to wear “type C’ whenever there is a duty and
formation. She also discussed the different rules and regulations that must be followed. One
thing that she discussed is about the salutation. We are going to salute when the national anthem
is being sung and if we see the cadet officers and CAT coordinator inside the school.

They also told us that the reasons in undergoing COCC training are to improve ourselves,
to face new challenges and to add sense to our high school lives.

When we had our second and third meeting, we practiced how to march. We did it for
almost one hour. Our feet became painful and we felt so tired that day. There were words that I
imagined that time: “being COCC is not easy”. There are trainings that are hard to do but
because of these trainings, we can be a great officers and persons someday. In tagalong dialect,
there is a saying that “kapag may tiyaga, may nilaga”. This quotations means, if you are a
hardworking person and you are doing your job properly, there is always a price or a nice
output that you will receive. Like in COCC, if you will work hard, follow the rules, obey and
respect the officers and co-members, you will gain a good reward.

Some of the juniors did not join this activity because they think it would be difficult and
would just be a burden for them.

We could not deny the fact that this would really help us in many ways. First, in building
our character especially in disciplining ourselves; second, in improving our knowledge; third, in
developing camaraderie among students; fourth, in gaining more experience through joys and
hardships everyone shares; lastly, in making them recognize their duties and responsibilities as
citizens and in producing future leaders of our nation.

Being a third year high school student, it is crucial to go take up COCC. I see it as a
challenging course. I heard from others that the activities in the course would require strong
body, mind and spirit.

COCC for me is an exciting experience. I believe that taking up this course will enable
me to be a good person and to be responsible citizen of the Philippines. This course will also
edify my love for my country.

LITERARY
SUCCESS
by: Pyke Jenny Culasino

Success is not about money or fame

Knowing you are still the same
Not believing it’s a goal to seek
But thinking you’ve never reached the peak

Success comes with hard work

And waiting in a lurk
It takes too much effort
Like a girl that you have to court

Success is not taken for granted

Having it ‘cause you wanted
Just remember to take it easy
You will reach it-you will see

SILOUHETTE
by: Charmaine Costales The Past
by: Blue Butterfly
Drowning in darkness
Of deep despair You were the first who captured my heart
Believing the lies ahead You captivated me with your love
And seeing the truths not there
You deserved to have my heart
See the rays of sunlight Because my heart means “you” to love
They shine upon your scars.
Reaching for that broken smile. But we were not that strong to go on through
Among the hidden stars And I wanted you to know that I was hurt too
. But life must go on, can’t help but move on
Accepting the fact that it’s only the dawn
Hearing the teardrops
Falling from your eyes
Believe my hidden secrets It is the truth of facing one’s fears
And tell my stolen lies. To see your love on someone’s shoulder
But I have to prove that there’s no reason to shed tears
Bring me to the surface ‘Cause I’m stronger now and ready for anything to
Give me air to breathe
bear!!!
Let me see the sorrow
Upon my broken dreams

My Friend as my Rival
by: Krystelle Cherry Magsakay

I have a friend who’s always there

Who comforts me, who loves me, and makes me happy everyday
I always have a beautiful smile when we’re together
I love her more than as my ordinary friend.

I love my friend the way she loves me

She’s always there to guide me, to help me,
And to teach me everything that I don’t know
I love the way she acts and not ashamed after all

But these things suddenly fade away

She became my rival that I never thought
Why these things are happening between us?
What did I’ve done wrong?

We love one guy

What should I do? Should I give up?
How about my friend? I love her very much!
 Did God planned this happened?

I don’t know how these things happened

How could I bring back the past?
But behind my sweet smiles,
there is a painful truth which I hid.

She
(Ode to a Beautiful Bad Girl)
By: Norvee Galvez

Just one look

Into her sparkling eyes
I can see the sun
Shining so bright

When she moves

I can feel the groove
I must thank God
‘cause it feels so good

When she smiles

I can see the stars
Falling from the sky
And they tremble like my heart

She’s like an angel

As pure and as innocent
Like a flower that blooms
Granted this heaven scent

She’s like a child

Playing out in the rain
Tossing the feathers high
As she takes her tears goodbye

Forgive me, girl

If I suddenly choked
You’re like a diamond or pearl
In my arms I wanted to hold

_____________________________________________________________________________
HEALTH

“One small bite, one big catastrophe”

by: Zia Danica Marcos
 Do you know that a small bite from mosquito can kill a person? The Department of Health in the
Philippines disseminated information about the Dengue Outbreak. They launched a public information
campaign using television, radio, newspaper and internet in spreading advisories about dengue.

Dengue is now one of the three leading causes of death. It is kind of disease that is transmitted to
humans through the bite of an Aedes aegypti mosquito or also known as Tiger mosquito. Not all tiger mosquito
are carriers of the virus, only those that have bitten people infected with the virus. Once infected, a mosquito
will be infective for life in transmitting the virus to susceptible individuals during probing and blood feeding.
However, an infected person cannot transmit the dengue virus directly into another person.

Dengue strikes persons with low levels immunity to the disease. Children are much more likely to get
the dengue virus than adults. This is the reason why children are more at risk in having the disease and dying
eventually. It usually starts with high fever, rashes, severe headache, pain behind the eyes and joint pain.
Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite also arise when infected by the virus. The illness can last up to 10 days
and can have a complete recovery for a month. If these signs and symptoms are ignored, this may cause death
which we do not want to happen.

Dengue has no specific treatment because it is caused by a virus. The only thing that doctors can do is to
relieve the pain of the patient. Rest is important for a speedy recovery.

Prevention is the key to avoid harm that can cause severe complications to people. Proper disposal of
bottles, tires, and containers can avoid the breeding of mosquitoes. Avoid hanging clothes in dark corners can
prevent the mosquitoes from hiding there. If the signs and symptoms arise, it is better to consult a doctor for
medical advise. However, the best way to prevent dengue infection is to maintain the cleanliness of our
environment.

Let us help minimize the chances of having dengue. The initiative will not start to our government but to
us. We ourselves are the beneficiaries for our responsible actions.

FEATURE

“The Power of Faith”

by: Krystelle Cherry Magsakay

There was a family who doesn’t understand each other. Sarah, the mother who stopped working in the
office, wanted to take care of her children. She always hugs her husband Erick, who’s always drunk. They have
three children Lea and Mickey the 15 year-old twin sisters who are already at 4th year high school and Joel, the
youngest, a 3rd year high school student. Sarah had chosen to transfer her children to a public school because of
their financial problem. Erick is an irresponsible father whom you can’t rely on, he can’t help his family. But as
a father it’s his responsibility to support his family’s needs which he cannot do.
 The twin sisters were not so close to each other. Lea is beautiful, kind, intelligent, courteous, and
industrious. Such qualities made people admire her. On the other hand, Mickey is not like Lea who has positive
characteristics. Mickey is very sensitive on her surroundings. She doesn’t like dirty places much less cobwebs
on her room or dusts on her table. She’s always hanging out with her friends and goes shopping twice a month.
She also wants to have things which are in rage.

One Thursday morning, when Lea, Mickey, and Joel were walking to school, someone was shouting
behind them. There was Carla, Lea’s best friend.
“Good morning, how are you Lea?” said Carla.
“Good morning to you too Carla, I’m fine. How about you?” Lea replied.
“I’m fine too” said Carla.
The two were walking together with a happy smile painted on their faces.
Carla is a Christian Baptist. She has a great faith in God. She’s also beautiful and has positive
characteristics. She’s always there for Lea to help and to guide her. She’s the type of girl that you can count on,
and that made them best friends.

The class already started. The teacher reminded her students that the school’s field trip was approach ing.
Lea became silent.
“I really like to join the fieldtrip,….but how can I pay?” she asked to herself.
Lea’s family had a lot of problems and she didn’t want to add her problems to her family.
The bell rang. It’s time to go home. Carla noticed that Lea has a lot of problems.
“You look very problematic, what’s wrong?” asked Carla.
“I really want to join the field trip.. but how? I don’t have enough money.” Lea said.
Carla just smiled at her and said “Call, and He will answer you.”
“Call? Answer me? Who’s going to answer me?” uttered Lea. Thinking who’s that person that Carla
meant.
“Are you available this Sunday?” Carla asked.
“On Sunday, why?” Lea asked
“I just want to invite you to our Church. Would you come?” Carla said
“Uhmm.. I don’t know. I’m not sure, but I’ll try.” Lea said
“Don’t try! Just come!” Carla said with a happy smile and said goodbye to each other.
When Lea was nearing their house, she saw Joel.
“Where are you going?” Lea asked
“I am going somewhere, where I can be happy with my friends”. Joel said
“But you have to finish first your homeworks before …”
“Just let me go! Mind yourself!” Joel said with a loud and angry voice and run farther from Lea
“But I’m just worrying about you.” Lea said silently that she’s the only one who had heard what did she
said.
Lea cried and wiped her tears gently. After she saw her brother, she met her twin sister with her
boyfriend holding hands together and she kissed her boyfriend and said goodbye. Lea didn’t believe what she
saw. She pinched her arms to know if she’s only dreaming during that time, but was not. The twin sisters saw
each other. Mickey looked like that she’s trying to envy her twin sister because of the expression on her face.
When the two went to their room, they talked.
Lea said, “How could you do that? Are you just influenced by your peers to kiss a guy like him?”
“Why? Do you envy me?” If you want I’ll find a guy for you to kiss everytime”. Mickey said with an
insulting voice.
Lea slapped Mickey.
“You don’t know what you’re doing” It’s not good for you to do such kind of things at this early age!”
“Then what’s your point?! Leave me alone! Mickey said with tears and angry voice.
 Lea cried and cried that night, asking herself why these things are happening to their family.
Lea knows that there is God but she’s not trying to approach Him. She has faith in God but she knows that
it’s superficial. She thought about what her best friend told her. “I’ll go to church with Carla!” said Lea with a
happy smile even though tears are flowing down her face.
It’s a Sunday morning. Lea woke-up very early. That was her first time to go to a Christian Church. She
felt excited and nervous. Lea asked her parents if they wanted to go with her. She also asked Mickey and Joel,
but they all made excuses. Lea called Carla and asked about the kind of clothes to wear. Carla answered,
“Anything that looks formal Lea, we’re going to Church this time”. So you have to be special in front of God.”
The two best friends rode in a jeepney
“I’m nervous, but I don’t know why”. This is my first time to go to a Christian place. Don’t you think
I’m going to get out of place there” Lea asked nervously
“Calm down. I’m here; I’m not letting you to be out of place. All the members of the church are going to
shake hands with you and they’re going to greet you.” Carla said to her. Lea just smiled
“Here we are.” Carla said.
“Wow, is this a church? Your Church looks like a splendid palace huh,” Lea replied.
“That’s a blessing from God.” Carla said
While they’re walking upstairs, the other youth members of the church shook hands with them.
The message has already started. It was entitled “Breath Faith”. The pastor said these lines:
Lazy hands made man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth. Jesus has the power to heal all your sickness and
problems. God knows what your needs are. Everything is possible for those who believe him.
..Lea prayed silently when she heard those lines and said: Lord you know what my needs are. Help me Lord.
I believe in you.
The pastor added the reading of Matthew: 33. It says: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his
righteousness and ALL THE THINGS SHALL BE UNTO YOU.”
Lea’s tears dropped. Now, she has a great faith in God. She has developed strength to face every big
problem that she has to solve. She prayed. She was very thankful to Carla. The two best friends were blessed,
and also their families.
Lea said this as her testimony, “Our God is a God of impossible. He is bigger than all our problems.
God has all the answer to all our needs. He’s also our great provider. He is always there to help us. If you think
you’re weak, pray.. If you think you are a loser, pray. Call and He will answer you. God is there, waiting for
you. God loves you.”

The Phone Call

by: Jesas Aniceto

A girl quickly punched numbers into her phone and waits until she hears the other line pick up “Becky, I
don’t know what to do, I really don’t. I love him so much and I don’t think he thinks of me that way. I mean,
whenever I see him I think of him, I can’t help it, his smile comes across my face. Sometimes he sees me
smiling and he smiles back. That’s when my knees turn to Jello and I get butterflies in my stomach. I know you
think that he’s so totally adorable and cute, but if you look past that and actually listen to what he has to say,
you will find a totally different person. He’s so caring and considerate and he makes me feel like I don’t deserve
him. Well, actually, I don’t deserve him, he’s too perfect. I mean, look at all the girls that fall over him. I could
never be one of them, they are all pretty and bubbly and…..not me. I couldn’t even start to compare myself to
them. But whenever I think of him or see him, I can’t help it, I smile. Now I didn’t tell you this but he called me
the other day about homework. I tell you now. I made a complete fool of myself. I’m so embarrassed. I stuttered
the whole time but he was so sweet and just kept talking and making me feel better. He’s so perfect Becky, I
don’t deserve him, so why do I keep wishing and praying that he will notice me, why? …. Becky? Becky are
you there?” “This isn’t Becky.” petrified asks. “Then who is this?” “This is the guy whose smiles and turns your
knees to Jello and I just wanted to say one thing? Everything you just said now, I’ve been wanted to say since
the day I met you.”

OPINION

FOOD FOR THE SOUL

by: Millicent Kylie Maniquiz
What do teachers say?

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF TRIALS???

Trials measure the readiness of an individual to face challenges. Trials are reflections of how far a person has
been through. Trials are humps on a highway where vehicle must slow down to pass smoothly.

-Mr. Rommel Cruz

In times of trials, you have a chance to contemplate about your past. You may have a chance to correct your
wrong deeds and think of other ways to solve problems. In short TRIALS make you a good person, whereas
your EXPERIENCES teach you the best things in life.
- Mrs. Rhea Alma M. Manahan

Trials serve as our stepping stones to a better life. Every trial that you may surpass will lead you to the road of
success. Do not take trial as a punishment but rather as a reward from God.

-Mrs. Marilou Bayarcal

It is in God’s control of timing and intensity, that we must realize a specific purpose for each trial. It is designed
to meet a specific need that God sees in our lives.
-Ms. Mary Zencent Alicante

Trials are never easy or enjoyable. View them as an opportunity to show where you stand.

-Ms. Mafei Manahan

The purpose of trials is to recognize that God is refining us by knocking off some of our rough edges. Trials
give us proof that we are not tested beyond our capabilities. Trials are test of credence in God’s omnipotent
power when life does not make any sense.

-Ms. Annabelle Sacdalan

Trials are intended to examine our quality, character, faith, and endurance.

-Mrs. Annie de Guzman

They serve as a life changing experience in which ends will meet their means along the way, and it takes two to
tango: Faith and courage. First you have to hold tighter to your faith and secondly, be courageous enough to
face each trial because that is where you grow and start learning a lesson in this game called life.

-Mr. Norberto Galvez

The purpose of trials is to provide us a driving force to face a better life after the storm.

-Ms. Arlene Humilde

Trials in life increase our anticipation for heaven. This is the flip side of the previous point. Just as trials create a
growing disinterest in the passing world they also create a greater desire.

-Ms. Mary Joseph dela

Cruz

The purpose of trials is to develop our patience, understanding, and strength. It is with it that we learn to value
the presence of what we have.

-Mrs. Jane Frances Mangawan

The purpose of trials is for us to become strong.

-Mrs. Ma. Victoria Caubang

Trials are instrument in molding us to become a better individual.

-Ms. Mary Grace Pacleta

The purpose of trials is to deepen our faith in God.

-Mrs. Almira Crisostomo

The purpose of trials is to make our life more meaningful.

-Mrs. Ma. Quila Francisco

The purpose of trials is for us to be firm with our decisions in life. Failures teach us a lesson not to repeat the
mistakes that we had done in the past.
-Mrs. Jean Silang
TRIVIA
 “Underground” is the only word in English language that begins and ends with the letters
“und”
 You burn more calories when you are sleeping than you do when you are watching television.
 The king of hearts is the only king without a mustache.
 Apples not caffeine are more efficient at waking you up in the morning.
 Currently, the person considered as the most intelligent in the world is Sho Yano with IQ of
over 200. He graduated his pre-medicine Summa cum laude at age 12.
 During a night’s sleep a person may change as many as 40 times and have around 5 dreams.
 A snail can sleep for 3 years.
 Didaskaleinophobia is the fear of going to school.
 The shrimp’s heart is in its head.
  2,520 can be divided by 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 without having remainder.

Source:
http://www.indianchild.com/amazing_facts.htm
http://www.berro.com/entertainment/general_interesting_facts.htm
http://www.bukisa.com/articles/161227_the-trivia-world-amazing-and-interesting-random-facts

Brain Teaser:
By: Janine Dagta
 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9

10 11

12 13 14 15

16

17 18 19 20 21

22 23

24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31 32

33 34

35 36 37 38 39

40

ACROSS
1. A rounded handle 23. The atmosphere of the earth
4. Opposed to yes 24. A rule or authoritative standard
6. Tart 26. Combining form Bad
10. To deprive of strength 27. Disposition
12. Circular membrane of eye containing pupil 29. An aggregation of fine drops of water in the
14. A scoop or bucket for dipping out fluids atmosphere
15. To receive as salary or wages for labor 31. To clasp tightly within the arms
16. In Greek mythology, the goddess of rainbow 33. To breathe rapidly
17. The state of anguish or pain 34. The national flower of England
20. Characterized by strict cleanliness 35. To go with or ahead of so as to show the way
22. Unnecessary activity 37. Full of fun
40. Chosen way

DOWN
1. (Acronym) Knockout 18. A bushy plant of Japan and China
2. Person in charge of or employing others 19. A tortilla chip topped with melted cheese
3. (Acronym) State of the Nation Address 21. Rise and fall of the surface of the ocean
5. To incline from an erect position 25. Belonging to me
6. Deduct 28. Too much
7. One only 30. Seen as twinkling point of light
8. Devout 32. Precious stone
9. To annoy or harass with continual importunities 26. First Sol-fa note
11. The blood vessels that return the blood to the heart 38. (Acronym) Emergency Room
12. Note sane 39. Second Sol-fa note
13. Not in the usual form