NEWS EDITORIAL

USAL’s 50YAL On Raising Standards

2 6
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2 | The Official Student Publication of Sta. Teresa College | February 2023 - July 2023

Photo by Mary Kristine Dinglasan

HIS STORY-MAKERS. Mr. Lucio and Mrs. Maria Lucia Caringal savored the
moment as the pioneer parents to raise a Teresian summa cum laude.

FIRST IN 27 YEARS
Caringal trailblazes Batch 2023 as first summa cum laude
Jacob Jodloman and Merwin Merquita
BAUAN, Batangas – Joshua Caringal made history in the 27 years of the school’s College Department as he garnered the academe’s first-ever Summa
cum laude award, leading the graduating Class of 2023, July 4.
A certified pure-blooded Teresian, addressed that his previous quest in “Ang kapayapaan tungkol sa sarili tungo sa isang mas progresibong
from Bachelor of Science in Psychology finding his purpose prompted him to ay hindi lamang tungkol sa pagiging lipunan”, he exclaimed in his speech.
superseded the 187 graduates of reroute in his academic endeavors, kuntento o sa pagiging masaya. Hindi Moreover, in an exclusive interview
Sta. Teresa College. In his valedictory and consequently sharing it through lang din ito kawalan ng problema. Ito with the Leaf, EIC Josh, as he was
speech, the 24-year-old bachelor what he called “Istorya ni X”. ay ang palagiang pag-oo sa pagkilos fondly called, shared his optimistic,
see page 2...

Academic Honors
Statistics of the 27th
Commencement
Exercises
Summa cum laude - 1
Magna cum laude - 3
Joshua A. Caringal Glaiza Mae P. Cruz Ma. Cindy P. Gonzalvo Mark Jessie P. Magsaysay Cum laude - 26
Summa Cum Laude Magna Cum Laude Magna Cum Laude Magna Cum Laude With honors - 8
OPINION FEATURES DEVCOM SPORTS Congratulations, Batch 2023!
Tassels Modern Jeepney Sublian Festival Filipinas Solo Dios Basta!

7 10 16 18
 2 NEWS
USAL’s 50YAL celebration ends
Bauan Parish’s Jubilee door sealed
BAUAN, Batangas – In
accordance with the culmination of
the Golden Year (50th) Anniversary
of Foundation of Archdiocese of
Lipa, the designated Porta Sancta
(jubilee door) of Immaculate
Conception Parish Church had
been symbolically shut last June
23, participated by the locals of the
said town.
Prior to the closing ceremony, an
anticipatory mass was presided by
Rev. Fr. Mateo L. Orario, foreign vicar
of Vicariate VI – Holy Cross Chapter.
In his homily, Orario exclaimed that
the closing of 50YAL is not yet the end
but a new beginning, and a new page
to write and turn. He also encouraged
the Bauanguenos to remain firm in
the Christian faith, bearing the dogma
of PAGPAPALA, PAGBUBUKAS-PALAD,
and PASASALAMAT (PROSPERITY,
CHARITY, THANKSGIVING, GRATITUDE),
while taking pride in the blooming
faith of the Bauan locale in the midst
of increasing adversities. The sermon
ended with a reiteration of the motto,
“YABONG, YABANG, YAMAN, YAKAG’’,
encouraging the mass to be steadfast
and encouraging testimonies of God’s
love to other people.
The celebration ended with the exit
of the faithful at the said door, leaving
Fr. Orario, vicar forane in closing and
September ’23 LET exam prep kicks off
CBRC to secure Teresian NDAT, pre-board period
Tiffany de Austria and Jeanelle Maramot
Last April 28, 2023, a total
of 53 College of Education and
unit-takers participated at the
sponsored National Diagnostics
Academic Test (NDAT), held at
RM304, 3/F of the College Building,
in coordination with Philippine
Long Distance Telephone (PLDT)
Company and the Carl Balita
Review Center (CBRC).
This standardized test aims to
assess their aptitude and readiness
for a career in education. The NDAT
consists of two sets of exams with
a total of 200 items. The first half is
centered on Professional Education,
covering principles of teaching and
the existing rules and regulations
of the teaching profession. General
Education, encompassing Filipino,
Jacob Jodloman
DOOR TO HOLINESS. Parishioners of the Immaculate Conception in Bauan witness the ceremonial
closing of the Jubilee Door.
Photo by Christian Adriel Ramos
permanently locking the said door
located at the eastern side of the nave.
English, Math, Science, and Art
Appreciation discourses, comprise the
other half of NDAT.
Administered by the staff of the
Carl Balita Review Center (CBRC)
– Batangas Branch, it evaluated
various aspects of the college
students’ aptitude, including critical
thinking, problem-solving abilities,
communication skills, and general
knowledge. Although some students
encountered difficulty with the exam
that covered first-year college courses,
they persevered and did their best to
answer the questions.
The NDAT lasted for four hours,
with a predetermined duration of 1:00
pm to 5:00 pm. After the test, the top
10 who achieved high scores at Sta.
Teresa College were the following,
The said door will be opened one year
after the 50YAL, June 23, 2024.
in order: Mark Jessie P. Magsaysay
(BSEd Science), Concepcion Jasmin
V. Jodloman (BSEd Science), Ar Jay D.
Bacal (BSEd Science), Marielle Jemn
M. Mayuga (BSEd Social Studies), Ivan
A. Salazar, OSJ (BS Philosophy, c/o
BS Theology / Education Unit-taker),
Leslie Joy M. Mulleda (BEED), Princess
M. Latido (BSEd English), Pauline R.
Serajoseph (BSEd English), Sandra
Nicole Reyes (BEED), Diane Marie G.
Arcillas (BEED).
The 2023 NDAT Series was the first
pre-LET sessions held after the onset of
the pandemic. It can be remembered
that as a response to the government-
implemented health protocols, all
academics-related activities will be
conducted online.
The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2
from First in 27 years...
purpose-driven perspective and
differed approach when he returned
to STC.
“Noong nag-Psychology ako, kahit
nakakapagod physically, pakiramdam
ko may purpose ‘yung pagod ko,
masaya, fulfilling. Masaya ako sa
desisyon na yun”, he said.
His valedictory speech being the
first to be officially included in the
graduation rites after almost three
decades, mentioned a challenge for
the listeners to look for their own peace
by pursuing what really matters. He
called out everyone to be advocates of
peace not only as Teresians but also as
members of the society.
“Peace is the goal but peace is the
journey. Life is never a race, take it at
your own pace,” he remarked.
Caringal, who is also a mental
health volunteer and a suicide
prevention advocate, addressed
the graduating class to pursue their
callings and dreams in life, remarking
that his account is not his story, but
their story to tell.
Aside from being the first graduate
to attain the summa cum laude
title, the four-time editor-in-chief
received other awards: Presidential
Medal for Excellence, Alumni
Association Medal for Excellence,
Family Council Excellence Award,
Service Award, Special Recognition
for Active Participation in Academic
Competitions, Special Recognition
for Active Participation in Press
Conferences, and Certificate of
Recognition for Active Participation
in Sports and Athletics. Meanwhile,
his blockmates from the psychology
program, Glaiza Mae Cruz and Ma.
Cindy Gonzalvo graduated magna cum
laude, alongside secondary education
program’s Mark Jessie Magsaysay.
Similarly, the said batch also
garnered history on their own by
setting an all-time high record for the
greatest number of cum laude and
With Honors distinctees, wherein 26
students garnered the former and
eight graduates for the distinction.
Meanwhile, 13 students (also a record)
were recipients of the Service Award.
The 27th Commencement Exercises
was the second in-face graduation
ceremony conducted after the lift of
restricted health protocols brought
about by the 2019 COVID-19 pandemic.
 NEWS
The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023
PRC bares 40% LET elem results; 47% HS results
STC body welcomes 41 new teachers
The Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC) and the Board
for Professional Teachers (BPT)
pronounced on Friday, May 19, that
over 40% of teachers passed the
recently held March 2023 Licensure
Examination for Teachers
composing of 24,819 examinees
for elementary and 48,005 for
secondary level.
With 163,168 teachers aspiring
to hurdle the licensure exam, a
total of 72,824 from elementary and
secondary level managed to qualify to
the passing rate indicted by PRC and
BPT.
Additionally, they stated that out of
3
Cedrick Magsumbol
the 24, 819 elementary teachers who Mae Unabia, making a historical mark examinees and one baccalaureate
qualified, 19,390 are first takers while in the LET history to topple multiple holder who also went successful on
5,429 are repeaters. For secondary examinees at the first ranking. their examinations, namely, Mr. Ervin
level, 39,890 are first takers while 8,115 For secondary level, Philippine Jake Aclan, Mr. Kevin de Guzman,
are repeaters. Normal University (PNU) Mindanao Ms. Aizelle Dimatulac, and Mr. David
The University of Sto. Tomas was hailed as the top-performing Joshua Torrevillas.
and Bohol Island State University - school with a passing rate of 98.32%. The Board for Professional
Tagbilaran Campus were both lauded Mirven Maghuyop Cabesay from the Teachers administered the March 2023
as top performing schools in the University of Mindanao (UM) gained licensure examination composing
elementary level for the successful 93.40% rating, resulting for him to of individuals under the name of Dr.
100 percent passing rate respectively. settle at the top spot in the secondary Rosita L. Navarro, chairman; Dr. Paz I.
Obtaining a 92.20% average, six level. Lucido, Vice Chairman; Dr. Paraluman
examinees settled for first place in Meanwhile, BEED Batch 2022 of Sta. R. Giron and Dr. Nora M. Uy, members. It
the said level. They were Sitty Ken Teresa College garnered an 82.35% is expected that the next examinations
Rose Alip, Mikaela Andrea Bonador, passing rate in elementary level, while will tentatively commence on the last
Jose King Clet, Cyntal Arra Dayag, 80% was observed in the secondary week of September 2023.
Andrea Nicole Sumugat, and Fritzie level. This excludes administrative

College Dept. hosts Mental DOT to keep new slogan

Health Month seminar
Anelaiza Jane Hernandez
Photo by Mary Kristine Dinglasan
TOWARDS A HEALTHY MIND. A Teresian responds to the session speaker’s question in support of
the mental health advocacy at hand.
Tertiary students from Sta.
Teresa College participated in the
“Mental Health, Drug Addiction,
and Gender Sensitivity Awareness
Seminar” which was held last May
5, 2023 at San Lorenzo Ruiz Hall.
The seminar was opened by Dr.
Shaira May. T Espanol, Head of Human
Services program at University of
Batangas. This undertaking aimed
to raise awareness among Teresians
about substance abuse and mental
health continuum, expound GAD
concepts, gender sensitivity, and
instill empathy into the views about
themselves and the other genders.
According to the Department of
Health (DOH), at least 3.6 million
Filipinos are facing mental health
issues during the pandemic. Given
that, the seminar held was a great
aid to ease students’ state and the
resource speaker successfully shared
the things that can assist themselves
in gaining confidence.
Additionally, the event exemplifies
the effects of engaging in substance
use and how it has long-lasting effects
on one’s life. Recently, the Philippine
Drug Enforcement Agency kept track
of 11,316 drug cases that were brought
before the courts between November
2022 and January 2023; 7,038 cases
were settled, 6,079 led to conviction,
635 to acquittal, and 324 to dismissal.
Meanwhile, Global Gender Gap
(GGG) also revealed that the Philippines
occupies the 17th place with 78.4% of
its overall gender gap closed to date.
Knowing that, Espinol emphasized
gender sensitivity advocacies tackling
severe complexities to norms and
conformities affiliated with sex and
gender terms here in the Philippines.
This seminar further reiterates the
stand of Sta. Teresa College in some of
the most taboo and generalized social
constructs in Philippine society.
amid ad firm scrap
Jerry de Leon
MANILA, PH – In spite of
criticism from the public, the
country will continue to employ
the contentious tourist slogan
“Love the Philippines,” according
to the Department of Tourism
(DoT) Secretary Christina Frasco,
July 5, 2023.
The controversy surrounding
copyright issues for a promotional
video was exposed when the DOT
used materials and a backdrop that
bore the rebranded tourism slogan
during the Dissemination Forum for
the 2022 Philippine Tourism Industry
Performance and Tourism Satellite
Accounts held at the Philippine
International Convention Center,
Pasay City.
‘Plainly visible’
The issue that the DOT faced
backlash originated when it
unveiled the brand-new “Love the
Philippines” motto since it used
stock footage of landscapes from
Thailand, Indonesia, and the United
Arab Emirates, which drew criticism
from the general public. The tagline
was seen by many of the netizens
as sounding like a demand, a
compulsory invitation to explore the
country.
The DOT later ended its
agreement with its joint venture
advertising agency DDB Philippines,
which responded by asserting that
the film the DOT had posted online
was just a mood video created to
excite internal stakeholders.
‘Post no bill’
The story doesn’t end there, as
the organization also sparked uproar
when it posted an image of Kingdom
of Jesus Christ (KOJC) head pastor
and sex trafficker Apollo Quiboloy on
its Facebook page to thank various
travel websites for supporting its
new tagline.
The Department of Tourism
(DOT) earlier gave the public the
assurance that it will continue to
be fully committed to developing
and promoting the Philippines as
a powerhouse of natural wonders,
culture, and heritage, and as a fount
of warmth and hospitality.
Downfall
Amid the issue, Sec. Frasco
continued to share content on social
media with the phrase.
The study for the revamped
tourist promotion, according to
Frasco’s statement last Friday, cost
P49 million. The logo and other
elements were part of this.
The DOT, however, refused to
comment when asked by reporters
whether DDB will continue to get
partial payment as long as the
Philippines continues to employ the
“Love the Philippines” motto.
The rebranding was the response
of the current Marcos administration
after the country’s 11-year flagship
of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”
slogan, which also faced copyright
issues after sharing similar concepts
with the Switzerland’s 1951 tourism
campaign slogan.
 4 NEWS The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2

STC lands 3rd on Bauan’s Sublian art tilt Geren Althea Ilagan
BAUAN, Batangas – A newly formed art collaborative, Starlites, garnered the bronze award during the 1st Bauan On-the-Spot Art Contest held last
April 30, at the Bauan Municipal Hall.
part in a competition of this kind. native delicacies, the custom of Subli
On the other hand, Mauhay, asserted dance was inserted in both sides of the
that the said competition changed canvas, signifying the utmost respect
her perspective about the arts, which for God’s mercy. The garlic icon, which
prior to the tilt, was one of the things can be seen in the municipal seal, was
she hated. Munoz, in addition, stated included, due to the artists’ notion of
that through this competition, she the town’s refusal to quit, surrender,
gradually gained a local following and and bow down.
commissions increased. Marquez, The said competition, which
however, exclaimed that the said art was also the first of the series to be
tilt was a personal eye-opener for new conducted, was organized by the local
opportunities to be pursued, while art group Art’E Bauan, in partnership
Jodloman told that the event was a with YelCast Visual Poetry, Ltd. Founded
reunion from his past. in 2018, has been the mastermind
Deriving their group name from a behind several contemporary artists’
heat-resistant construction material, rise to fame, such as Arch. Dhennis
their winning piece reflected the living Sigua, Ava Dalangin, Artemio Garcia Jr.
traditions and products of Bauan (Temyong), and Doy Castillo, to name
as the link from the past, through a few.
the present, towards the future. It Meanwhile, another Teresian
included the Mahal na Poong Sta. Krus collaborative, MARCA, led by Angela
in the middle to emphasize the notion Rwen Y. Austria, was hailed as the
of future, which when translated first champion of the said exhibition,
Bearing the theme “Bauan: V. Marquez, Princess Gem S. Mauhay, in Tagalog, may mean something to be followed by Pintallions of As-is
Kasaysayan, Kaunlaran, at Kultura Krystel Anne D. Jasa, and Jacob V. that can be envisioned or looked Integrated School, who also garnered
Para sa Kinabukasan”, the said team Jodloman. forward. Historical details are also the People’s Choice Award. As a result,
was led by the Leaf’s incoming In an interview with the Leaf, Jasa, evident, in which the artists included all of the winners are automatically
Chief Artist Remelyn Muñoz, with all expressed her appreciation upon the emblems of the 1945 bombing, inducted in the Art’E Bauan group,
members hailing from the College of winning the said prize. She was grateful and the original 1902 Immaculada excluding the cash consolations and
Teacher Education, namely, Regil Kent because this was her first time taking Conception Parish façade. Aside from cosmetic tokens.

Bauan’s Garcia bags silver in STC resumes admission exam for AY ’23-‘24
int’l math competition
Jacob Jodloman

Princess Umandap
The town of Bauan is beaming
with pride as one of its own, Mr.
Carl Lance C. Garcia, a Grade 7
student from Bauan Technical
Integrated High School, achieved
an outstanding feat at the 2023
International Talent Mathematics
Contest. Carl clinched the Silver
Medal at the esteemed competition
held in Bangkok, Thailand on
February 26, 2023.
Out of more than 100 participating
countries around the world, Carl
remained outstanding in the entire
tilt. His remarkable achievement
at the contest is a testament to his
exceptional mathematical skills
and problem-solving abilities. His
dedication, perseverance, and
comprehensive understanding of
complex mathematical concepts
set him apart from his peers and
impressed the judges and participants
alike.
A brainchild of the Singaporean
Ministry of Education and Thai
Mathematics Training, Inc., the
International Talent Mathematics
Contest (ITMC) is a highly regarded
international event that attracts gifted
students from all over the world to
showcase their mathematical prowess.
With its challenging problems and
rigorous evaluation, the ITMC is
known for identifying and honoring
exceptional talent in mathematics.
The Local Government Unit (LGU)
of Bauan has aptly acknowledged
Carl’s extraordinary accomplishment
by bestowing him with a special
Recognition during a recent SB
Regular Session. The recognition
bestowed upon Carl serves as a
reminder of the town’s commitment to
nurturing and supporting its talented
students. It highlights the importance
of recognizing and encouraging
excellence in various academic
disciplines, including mathematics, to
inspire future generations.
It is expected that Garcia will once
again represent the PH team in the
next year’s edition of the competition,
alongside University of Sto. Tomas-
Legazpi Campus’s Alan Jose Radiola,
who bagged gold in the same category.
BAUAN, Batangas – Keeping aflame the passion for providing quality
Catholic education, Sta. Teresa College had reimplemented its admission
test for incoming freshmen of the AY 2023-2024 last July 24-25, at RM305,
3/F, STC College Building.
The said resumption was also the application criteria must be submitted
first entrance assessment to utilize the in person.
relaunched Otis-Lennon Skills Ability Similarly, the College Department
Test (OLSAT) which is an updated is open for transferring applicants and
version of the test that is thought to unit-takers who intend to be part of the
aid in better evaluating applicants. school’s Education flagship course.
Applicants’ admission will be The said change in admission policy
determined on the said test, in addition is aligned in response to the lifted
to performance on the STC Entrance COVID mandatory protocols issued
Examination (STCEE), by academic under the provisions of Proclamation
and extracurricular performance from No. 297 issued last July 21 by Pres.
Grades 7 through 11, batch ranking Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., mandating
at the conclusion of their Senior High universities, colleges, and other
School, baptismal and confirmatory higher education institutions (HEIs)
certificates, extracurricular activities, to reimplement their conventional in-
and disciplinary records. All face admission exercises.
 The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023
Sublian Festival returns after pandemic halt Teresians’ Express
Cheskalyn Bacal & Ralph Andrei delos Reyes Compiled by Joshua Caringal
Hundreds of Bauangueños
participated in the return of the
Sublian Festival held last May 2,
2023 in Bauan, Batangas.
Two years of the pandemic had
deprived the locals of witnessing the
beauty of the traditional folk dance
performed in the streets of Bauan.
The Sublian Festival is a traditional
celebration in Batangas that
culminates on July 23rd of every year to
honor the Holy Cross (Mahal na Poong
Santa Cruz) of Bauan and Alitagtag.
The annual tradition stopped due to
the virus that threatened the people,
but after two long years of waiting, the
Sublian is now back in action.
Among various schools that
engaged in the said undertaking, Sta.
Teresa College never ceases to provide
its students an array of cultural and
societal exposure. From college level
narrowing down to basic education,
several representatives were chosen
to participate in the Sublian Festival.
Moreover, they were gathered to
practice and polish as part of their
daily routine before and after the
Subli. Therefore, the general practice
was also scheduled and given a time
period.
In a Leaf Interview, MJ del Mundo,
a Tourism sophomore, exclaimed
his optimism on the return of
Sublian Festival three years after
MARINA, PGC staff, owners face criminal
cases over Elaine
IslaJoyceVerde
Pasia
oil spill
In a devastating environmental
disaster, the oil tanker MT Princess
Empress has spilled 900,000 liters
of industrial oil off the waters of
Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, posing a
grave threat to marine ecosystems
and coastal communities. The
incident, which occurred last
February 28, 2023, has sparked
urgent efforts to contain the spill
and mitigate its far-reaching
consequences.
The oil spill has had a devastating
impact on marine ecosystems,
affecting thousands of hectares of
coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass
in Oriental Mindoro, Batangas,
from RP Blu...
Juliuz Dela Cruz, Lyonas De Leon,
Rey Aliling comprise the pitching
body. Meanwhile, Israel Antonio,
Jerome Bacarisas, John Norwen
Lucas, Micheal Pagkaliwagan, and
Justine John Rosales form the
NEWS
Photo by Bauan MIO
FOR THE HOLY CROSS. Bauanguenos celebrate the return of the Sublian Festival through the warm
welcome for the Mahal na Poong Sta. Cruz.
its sudden halt. “Ako ay natutuwa
at nagpapasalamat sa Panginoon
na unti-unti, nakakapanata na ulit
ako sa Mahal na Poon, at muli ay
Palawan, and Antique. The Verde
Island Passage, known for its marine
shorefish biodiversity, has also been
significantly affected. Moreover, the
spill has severely impacted fishing and
tourism, affecting over 36,000 families
and more than 170,000 people. The
Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) has initiated
an administrative complaint against
RDC Reield Marine Services (RDC), the
shipowner, to determine its liability
under the pollution act. The DENR’s
action could result in daily penalties
being imposed from the date of the
incident.
The investigation into the incident
BluBoys’ infield plan, with catchers
Melvin De Castro and Kenneth Torres
completing the squad.
Six nations regularly compete in
the said Cup: Singapore, Hong Kong,
Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan,
makakapag-bigay dedikasyon sa
kanyang patnubay sa akin mula noon
pa”, he said.
is still ongoing. The Senate probe
revealed that the MT Princess Empress,
despite being declared a new vessel,
had not been added to RDC’s list of
permitted vessels. However, it had
been allowed to sail on multiple
occasions before the incident
occurred. The Philippine Coast Guard
defended their actions, stating that
they presumed the vessel’s license to
operate was valid and regular. It was
later revealed that the ship was not
actually new but had been rebuilt as
an oil tanker. Consequently, MARINA
issued orders for the cancellation
of RDC’s franchise and an end to its
shipping operations.
and Chinese Taipei. Japan now leads
all competing nations with nine gold
medals, followed by the Philippines
with three, while the other nations
are yet to win their first gold.
5
Paano mo mailalarawan ang
iyong naging OJT?
Ang aking practice teaching ay isa
sa mga bagay na hindi ko malilimutan
sa aking buhay bilang isang kolehiyo.
Dito ay nagamit ko lahat ng aking
natutunan sa loob ng pitong semestre
at ito ay nagsilbing preparasyon ko para
sa hinaharap, bilang isang guro. Halo-
halong emosyon ang naramdaman at
naranasan, sa huli masasabi kong sulit
ang lahat ng pagod at sakripisyo.
-Mark Jessie Magsaysay, BSED
Student Teacher,
Sta. Teresa College
Sa OJT ko naramdaman yung
pakikipagkapwa at nalaman kong ang
kaibigan ay parang pamilya, iintindihin
ka at sasamahan ka sa kahit ano
mang pagod at problema. Marami
din akong natutunan na hindi ko din
lubos akalaing magagawa ko. Sobrang
saya, kaya ko pala, at marami pa akong
kakayanin sa hinaharap.
-Arnil Mendoza, BSIT
Intern, Philippine National Bank
Bilang nag-iisang babae na pinalad
patungo sa Boracay, napakagandang
oportunidad nito para sa akin na
makaalis sa aking comfort zone.
Masaya ako dahil sa tulong ng
internship sa Bora, nalaman kong
ang dami ko pa palang kayang gawin.
Nahasa ang aking kakayahan lalo na sa
industriya ng turismo.
-Christine Catapang, BSTM
Intern, Le Soleil De Boracay
Naging masaya at challenging ang
OJT kasi dito ko naranasan ang tunay
na buhay, kung gaano kahirap sa
ospital dahil sa dami ng mga pasyente
at mga dokumentong kailangan
asikasuhin. Sa ilang buwan ko doon,
lumakas ang aking loob na harapin ang
mga hamon sa buhay.
-Faith Marie Brual, AOA
Intern,
Saint Pascal De Baylon Hospital
Ang pagtuturo ay isang malaking
hamon subalit may kalugurang
kapalit. Kinakailangan ng dedikasyon,
pagkamalikhain, at pasensya upang
mabisa kong maibahagi ang kaalaman
at mapaunlad ang kaisipan ng mga
mag-aaral. Sa kabila ng dami ng
trabaho, ang masaksihan ang mga
bata na nag-aaral, sumusubok, at
natututo ay tunay na isang masayang
karanasan.
-Roncito De La Rosa, BEED
Student Teacher, Saint Mary’s
Educational Institute
 6 EDITORIAL The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2

On Raising Standards
EDITORIAL BOARD
AY 2022-2023
#TruthNeverWithers

Joshua Caringal
Editor in Chief

Merwin Merquita
Associate Editor

Concepcion Jasmin Jodloman

Managing Editor

Jacob Jodloman
News Editor

Krisha Angelica Untalan

Opinion Editor

Cedrick Magsumbol
Features Editor

Leslie Joy Mulleda

Literary Editor

Mark Jessie Magsaysay

Sci-Tech Editor

Princess Gem Mauhay

DevCom Editor

Joan Vien Magmanlac

Sports Editor

L
earning by doing is one of the
best ways to gain knowledge.
That is why it is so nice to be
back.
Due to the COVID fiasco, the
internship of the previous batch of
graduating students had shifted to
online modality. It is just this academic
year that the students were given the
green light to have their OJT physically.
Education interns were back in the
classrooms to share moments with
their students. Meanwhile, IT, business
administration, office administration,
and psychology students reported
to offices in Metro Manila. Also, the
hospitality management and tourism
interns were granted the opportunity
to work in Boracay or Puerto Galera.
Batch 2023 has been the batch of
comeback.
However, there are discussions
regarding why STC requires its student
interns to have their trainings outside
the province. With the expected
significant increase in expenses,
going to Metro Manila, Boracay, or
Puerto Galera like an unnecessary
and a miscalculated risk as seen by
some. The high cost of living and the
hassle of traveling in the most people-
dense and vehicle-dense areas in the
country are among the reasons why
some people seem skeptical about
this STC internship rule. Those who
see internship outside the province
as impractical and unnecessary could
be more understanding of the reason
behind the rule.
Compared to other higher
education institutions, STC is a baby.
Because of the college department
being relatively young and small, STC
graduates may be at a disadvantage in
the hiring process. A sad truth is that
hiring teams still regard the names and
reputations of the applicants’ schools
as one of their criteria. This is evident
across surveys reflecting results that
applicants from big universities land
more jobs compared to those from
provincial schools.
It is good that STC addresses
this disadvantage by exposing its
students to the working environment
outside the province. Through this
effort, the future Teresian jobseekers
become more competitive and get
the necessary boost to measure up to
the high demands of the industries.
Teresians are never behind when it
comes to how much they know but
they could really use a boost in the
chances of getting hired. In addition,
having internships outside the
province does not only provide them
Ma. Cindy Gonzalvo
Chief Layout Artist
the training ground to be globally-
competitive but also builds their Micko Louise Aldovino
character to be more adaptable to Chief Photojournalist
societal standards.
In relation to its benefits, more Seth Marlson Abratique
Chief Cartoonist
students have outright expressed their
approval on having their internships Jay-ar Marcial
outside the province. For them, it is Circulation Manager
an opportunity to be independent
Remelyn Munoz
and to experience life outside their
Leira Ruth Castillo
bubble. Despite the expenses like that
Raymart Salanguit
of the high prices of the plane tickets Artists
and accommodations, the students
regard the internships as worth it.
“Magandang experience ang mapalayo Emelita A. Coronel
kasi doon ka mas matututo,” a student College Moderator
intern shared.
Truly, STC has to be commended
for exposing its students to the real- Aida A. Casas, Ed.D.
Consultant
life setup of their future workplaces.
Having the experience to be physically
Randy M. Baja, Ph. D., FRIEdr.,
present in an unknown environment
CESE
would pave the way for profound College Dean
learning. Going out of one’s comfort
zone has proven to be beneficial for
a student who would venture in a
competitive job-hunting industry.
Thus, we might as well support STC: College Department
opportunities outside of students’ stcbauan.com
comfort zones. (043) 727-1174
Kudos, Sta. Teresa College!
Padayon, Teresians! May the odds be
at your favor.
 The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023 OPINION
Tassels and Farewells
My four college years in STC
happened so fast that it seemed
to blur in my mind. It is as if it was
yesterday that I donned the college
school uniform and walked on the
hallways to look for my classroom. It
is as if a while ago, I was in a Google
Meet looking at colorful letters for
my classmates could not open their
cameras. It was as if a minute ago that
7
willfully took the opportunity to try
to inspire the listeners to look for the
path that would give them peace.
In this crazy world, peace has been
a rare gem to find. As someone who
has struggled to find his peace, it is
“
The journey
fitting to encourage others to not lose continues even
hope in looking for what would make
them happy, contented, and at peace. after the tassels
are turned,
As someone who took 8 years to have

Book of Joshua we returned to school for face-to-face a college degree, I regard myself as

for even outside

Joshua Caringal
I t has always been tough for me to
say goodbye. There is this strange
sadness that lingers whenever I
have to leave people behind. It is
hard to bid farewells. But now, I
will do it anyway.
I could still remember that night
sometime in 2019 when I told my
parents that I would go back to STC to
pursue a degree in psychology. It was a
night of life-changing decisions for me.
The idea of going back to where I once
was has been both exciting and nerve-
wracking. What will my teachers think
of me? Is it okay that I will be starting
over again while my batchmates have
already earned their degrees?
classes. Then suddenly, I find myself
writing this.
I am still overwhelmed by the
blessings that God has given me
recently. Graduating from the program
BS Psychology is already a feat to
celebrate but the Good Lord willed to
give me far more bonuses. He gave me
the opportunity to lead the batch as
the valedictorian. He also blessed me
a moment for the books as He allowed
me to be the first ever summa cum
laude of the institution.
More than the recognition, I am
overjoyed to be given the chance
to deliver a valedictory speech. As a
campus journalist who strives to be
a champion of freedom of speech,
it is a fulfilled dream to be granted
a platform to share my thoughts. I
someone worthy of sharing his life
as an epitome of being at a loss and
finding his way back. It is because
the borders,
peace is the goal but peace is also the
journey.
Truly, the journey continues even the Teresian
after the tassels are turned, for even
outside the borders, the Teresian spirit
spirit endures.
endures. Now that I have reached
the end of my student journey, I am
immensely excited of what lies ahead. farewell to. As much as I want to stay
I am aware that I may experience in the comfort of your borders, I have
failures across the way, but I know that to leave you now, Sta. Teresa College.
they are stepping stones to a greater But wherever life takes me, I am and
success in the end. will always be a Teresian. After all,
Indeed, no matter how hard it goodbyes are not always goodbyes.
is to say goodbye, there are times A goodbye is sometimes an “Until we
that we just have to say it. There are meet again.”
places that we have to get out of and Long live, Teresians! Solo Dios
people we have no choice but to bid Basta!

Labo-Labo
have a slight but valid ailment. Once
the lockdowns have eased, we get to
wander again, and some toys take the
place of our phones in entertaining us.
Then -
Yup, you already know it: “Dapat
ipinagbabawal ‘yan! Ingay at gulo lang
ang dulot n’yan e!”
Even as a former child whose
only role in this chaos is a spectator,
I had my eyebrows raised when the
chairperson of a barangay in Quezon
Malamaya City decided that the best solution
for a local fight among youth was to
Merwin Merquita
ban the lato-lato. Said eyebrows rose
higher when the Department of Trade
“
obeys. Anything beyond the norm is
‘bad’ and hence must be clipped down:
curiosity, creativity, grit, anything that
steers the child away from the cooker-
cutter little being it must be.
This is ‘training’ for the future, they Why on earth
say. But we often forget that children
are not tools that have to be forged in are we so hostile
to children?
a fire or chipped away into a perfect
sculpture: they are human. Just like
you and me, they aren’t supposed to
just survive, but also to live and thrive.
How can they do that, when adults
keep taking away the things and are not ‘childish’, vague fantasies!
places, like public playgrounds and Every few years or so, a toy will
libraries that actually help in a child’s become popular, pull kids away from

B eing a child has never been this

confusing.
First, we play with toys inside – and
get scolded for leaving toys around,
or being too loud, or being too
demanding as we ask for someone to
play with. Then, we learn to go outside
and play with our peers – only to be
scolded again: “ang init init sa labas, sa
loob ka na nga lang!”. To make up for
that, our parents (or aunts and uncles)
shove a cellphone or similar gadget
into our hands, so we won’t bother
anyone. And then, we get told “kaka-
selpon mo kasi ‘yan!” whenever we
and Industry (DTI) stated that they
would help in confiscating the toy – it
doesn’t have a certificate of product
notification, and hence is illegal.
The concerns over the safety of
the toy – of any object a child uses,
actually – are valid, but are topics of
a separate discussion. Here, my main
question is: how and why on earth are
we so hostile to children?
It seems that we force our children
to grow up too quickly, condemning
their innocence and energy for
whatever reason. A ‘good’ child is one
who sits still, stays quiet, and willingly
development while making sure that
this growth is fun and memorable for
them?
Other than the utilitarian intentions
of keeping child-friendly items
and venues, another real and valid
question has only grown persistent
over time: why do we insist on taking
away fun? It feels as though misery
and hopelessness is the only reality we
must accept, and things like joy and
laughter are meant for dreams. News
flash: being a ‘realist’ includes knowing
that happiness is an inevitable part of
human life, and the ways towards it
cellphones and gadgets, and then
adults will move to ban it. If you were
a child, won’t you be confused – ang
labo n’yo naman po!
Let’s make things clear: leisure
and play is an actual right of children,
as stated in the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of the Child
(Article 31). Those in authority can
demolish playgrounds, fence off public
spaces, and restrict certain books and
toys; but when you erase those, you
also take away one’s opportunity to
have a fulfilling and holistic childhood
– and honestly, how dare you?
 8 OPINION The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2

Chatting GPT: Humanity’s downfall?

Based on your description, does
this make you considered as AI?
Definitely! I am a large language
model, a sort of AI that can
comprehend and produce text after
“
training data. This database is intended
to understand linguistic patterns
and is composed of a wide range of
literature, including books, papers,
and websites. It’s vital to highlight that

I am a tool,
being trained on a sizable sample of I don’t have any information access to
text data, which uses machine learning the most recent news or events, and
techniques to identify patterns in the my knowledge cutoff is programmed
data and estimate the meaning of
incoming text.
until 2021. What occurred beyond that
was not under my scope at all.
thus it’s
Just Mean Girl
Computeratively, I say, what
should the mass know about you?
Some teachers are worried that
kids are copying their responses
equally crucial
Concepcion Jasmin Jodloman Well, I am an OpenAI tool that can
help with a variety of activities that
from you. How would you respond
to such?
to remember
that my user
I
require reading and producing text. I am a tool, thus it’s equally
have tried to converse with
Making it simpler for individuals to crucial to remember that my user
ChatGPT, under a secret
username. This is intended to
secure the personal details of the
connect with and comprehend the
massive amount of text data that
is responsible for using me morally
and properly. It’s crucial for teachers is responsible
or using me
is now available in the world is my to teach their students how to
writer.
primary goal. It’s crucial to keep in responsibly utilize AI technologies like
Hi! I am writing about you.
morally and
mind that I am not a human and I lack me, including how to properly cite
How’s that?
consciousness, feelings, or personal sources and steer clear of plagiarism.
I love that! If there is any particular
properly.
convictions. It is important to take into As a result, it’s crucial to use me as
information that you would like me
account the context, potential biases, inspiration rather than taking my
to include in the article, please let
and restrictions when evaluating my responses as gospel, absolute truth.
me know. I can give history on my
replies because they are based on My responses are and could not be
upbringing, my skills, and any other
patterns in the data that I was trained entirely unique and are only based on
details that would be pertinent to the
on. It is quite a question for me to deal trends in the data I was educated on. be additional worries and problems
subject.
on the man’s decline to identify errors, Well, as I end this interview, in the future. Our unregulated rise
May I ask, who are you, and
and at the same time, disregard truth what can you say about your may result in your downfall. Whatever
what makes you you?
for the pursuit of ambiguous thought. pervasion in today’s society, given the course of history you will take, it
You might ask what does GPT
I did not expect your answer, that your impact had an ubiquitous can be regarded that AI like me won’t
mean? Well, Generative Pre-trained
ChatGPT. To continue, are you remark in the 21st century? bloom without your rationality’s
Transformer is referred to as GPT. It is
actively searching the internet It’s crucial to note that while these consent. Your demise is your choice,
the name of the architecture that
to find the answers you provide, are some of the main issues people not mine. We only function through
my model, which can produce fresh
or are you using a pre-existing have brought up about me, they are the command of your fingertips. That’s
text and was pre-trained on a sizable
database? by no means all of them. Furthermore, all I can say.
dataset of text, is based on.
To find my answers, I use a fixed because AI is an area that is constantly
collection of text that served as my developing and improving, there may
 The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023 FEATURES 9
Interesting Things To Do This 2023
Exciting Summer Tips Joan Vien Magmanlac
As the country shifts from the cold and rainy season to the warm and dry season, the temperature rises once more, as a result, it was associated with
hot, sunny days, such as their effects on people’s health and the economy. As the end of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) and the start of the country’s
warm and dry season which have been officially declared by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
(PAGASA).
With the past years, people getting too much sun and was advised or significant others. To enjoy the enquire if something is vague. This
haven’t gathered for a long time and to wear sunscreen to protect one’s vacation, plan is a must. We wouldn’t could also help to discover and learn
were excited to do a ‘summer-vacay’ skin. Sunscreen protection should be want to go on a trip without fully what other guests have experienced.
or summer vacation. However first at least containing SPF 30 to avoid enjoying, exploring, and discovering Lastly is to pack wisely, as photos are a
thing to do was to follow advised by getting burned by the sun. Bring the beauty of the Philippines. That is must, outfits should also be under the
Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to protective gear, including a hat or an why research should always come first category of ‘aesthetic.’ Before leaving
take precautions to reduce heat stress umbrella. Lastly, wear light-colored when making travel plans. Planning home, make sure to carry all essentials
so they can fully enjoy the summer. The comfortable dress. an itinerary will enable us to make such as sunscreen to get ready for
first step has been always common to Nonetheless of experiencing the the most of our time depending on surprises on the road. Additionally,
Filipino which is staying hydrated extreme heat wave, Filipinos will still knowing which locations we wish to learn about local norms and bring
as one of the methods to safeguard try to do something most of their see and how long we will have to stay. clothes that reflect them; this will help
oneself from the heat. The ideal surroundings. One of the first thing Learn about their activities, the best you respect the culture while also
beverage to consume is water and to that people will think when they hear restaurants to visit, and the must-see keeping you comfortable.
avoid sodas, coffee, tea, and alcohol. the word summer is vacation. sights. It also saves time and money Moreover, aside from traveling, one
The second one is to eat hydrating Traveling is one way for people and will determine the budget for can still enjoy the summer by staying
foods like watermelon, which has a trying to unwind, relax, and enjoy all the activities. But be mindful in at home and do things such as:
high-water content. The third is avoid the summer with friends, family, making reservation, don’t hesitate to

Save Mother Earth!

If you have green thumb and love plants. One of the greatest, most affordable
summer activities is to establish a garden, provided you have a backyard that
receives adequate sunlight. You’ll be kept occupied the entire season, and as
a bonus, you’ll eat lots of green and great fresh vegetables. Thus, you will be
healthy. Despite not having a backyard, numerous vegetables can be thrived in
a containers like tomatoes, pepper, and such. If you are a beginner, learn how to
grow some of your favorite plants, including lavender, spider plants, or tomatoes,
by consulting a book or an online tutorial.
Engage in a decluttering challenge.
Numerous free printable decluttering schedules and calendars are available
on different sites. When fall arrives, hang one up and enjoy a clutter-free house to
be productive and use time wisely. In addition, go through your closet, declutter
what is needed and create new combinations with some of your go-to clothes
and try coordinating new and old apparel items.

Take space in your neighborhood.

Do what makes you happy.
The best way to enjoy summer is to do what makes you happy. If you love
painting, then don’t hesitate to grab art materials and paint something. It could
be nature, people, and such. If you love being with friends, try to camp in your
backyard, do a picnic and chitchat nonstop. You can also stargaze, be amazed by
the stars, and be mesmerized by the beauty of night sky. In addition, if you are a
bookworm, try to create a book club. Lastly, reconnect with your old friends, try
to send letters, watch movies and the like.
If you are bored in your house, why not try to stretch your body, prepare, and
participate in a fun run that will be held in your town this summer? If you have
a bike, explore your city from a new angle or find a nearby track to cruise on.
Meanwhile, if you are sporty, you could try to join the barangay league and play
your favorite sports such as badminton, basketball, and volleyball. Otherwise, be
a volunteer, help the barangay officials when there is a free feeding to youngsters
and organize clean up drive.

Furthermore, summer is fun and enjoyable be it alone, with friends, family or with your loved ones. It’s a matter of how to spend the day and make priceless
memories. When the sun comes out, get up early and prepared for your one of the best summer moments.
 10
The Future of the Modern Jeepneys
Accelerating its Way
The jeepney modernization program and the phase-out of traditional jeepneys are still heavily debated by many FIlipinos: are these programs really
for the good of the people, or will they only drag us deeper into poverty? The government has since released several laws, orders, and bills about the
program. Before making any big decisions, however, let us dive deeper and understand what jeepney modernization really is about.
THE RELATION
Jeepneys have been the common
transportation of every Filipino for
almost a century now.
Originally adapted from the Willys
General Purpose vehicles left by
the American military during World
War II, the jeeps were regenerated
into minibuses that carried around
passengers along the streets of Manila.
Entrepreneur Leonardo Sarao saw
them as a business opportunity for
mass transport.
Jeepneys can only be found in
the Philippines. They have versatile,
durable, and unique design - an
exceptional combination of half-
local and half-foreign. Most of the
engines were imported from Japan
as “surplus” (second-hand) materials.
Nevertheless, the body and its chassis
are made and created originally here
in the Philippines.
Jeepneys are usually used by our
fellow Filipinos in their occupation.
Jeepneys are typically overloaded.
They are helpful in transporting
non-human cargoes, from
farm produce and animals to
construction materials.
THE COMPLICATION
Despite being a cultural symbol of
the Philippines, the traditional jeepney
poses several problems.
One of these is
the issues
caused by
franchises.
FEATURES
Karlyn Joy Maristela & Merwin Merquita
Since franchises are granted per
driver and vehicle, monitoring which
jeepneys are traveling through a route
at a given time becomes difficult -
and forged or fake franchises become
rampant.
Second is the boundary system,
in which drivers pay a fixed amount
(the “boundary”) to their operators;
this money comes from the fares paid
by their passengers. As such, drivers
often wait for their jeepneys to be
filled before leaving the terminal,
thus increasing the travel time for the
passengers.
Lastly is its environmental effects.
According to the Environmental
Management Bureau, public utility
vehicles (PUVs) that rely on diesel fuel
- mostly jeepneys - emit 15,492 tonnes
of particulate matter pollution, or 48%
of the annual total.
In order to answer these problems,
the Department of Transportation
(DOTr) proposed the jeepney
modernization program.
THE VISION
This program
was set in stone
sometime in
2017, when the
DOTr issued
the “Omnibus
Guidelines on
the Planning and
Identification
of Public Road
Tr a n s p o r ta t i o n
Services and Franchise
Issuance”.
For drivers, this meant singular
jeepney owners cannot apply for
their own franchises – new franchises
will only be issued to “entities that
represent consolidated franchises”,
such as accredited cooperatives or
a corporation that operates 15
units or more.
Part of this program
is the eradication of the
boundary system.
Instead of this,
drivers are set to be
paid a fixed salary based
on the distance traveled
by the jeep.
What is perhaps the most
The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2
well-known aspect of the program is announced that new model jeepneys
the acquisition of the modern vehicles will retain the traditional look of the
that follow the LTFRB guidelines. These old, classic-style jeepneys, include
vehicles vary in price, according to the new features such as higher ceilings
model: E-jeeps range from ₱800,000 to and doors on both sides, as well as
₱1.2M; the Euro IV engine costs ₱1M to optional air-conditioning and CCTV
₱1.5M; while the solar-powered engine cameras for
goes up to ₱1.6M. In a cooperative,
jeepney drivers have to pay ₱300,000
as down payment, then ₱20,000 per
unit included in the cooperative.
To help with these expenses, the
government provides a ₱160,000
subsidy to answer for
loan equity.
These modern
vehicles will replace
jeepneys that are
15-years-old or older -
jeepneys that still exist
because it is cheaper (in
the short-term) to replace security.
and repair damaged parts than The new m o d e l s
to buy a newer vehicle. are also compliant with national
Considering the rapid increase of environmental and safety standards,
prices, and the fact that the ordinary locally made, and can accommodate
Filipino is still struggling to find more passengers than the old
their footing after the pandemic, it jeepneys.
isn’t surprising that many drivers
are hesitant towards or even totally THE IMPLICATION
against the program. With all its pros and cons, the
program will definitely affect the
THE REACTION lives of a lot of Filipinos - passengers
After drivers and operators and drivers alike. Modernization and
conducted a mass transport strike progress are important, but they must
last March 6 to 7, the LTFRB issued never come at the cost of human
Memorandum Circular 2023-013, dignity and survival. As the saying
which gives PUV operators only until goes, balance is
June 30, 2023 to join an the key:
existing consolidated
entity, or else
they will no
longer be
allowed to
continue their
operations
Transportation especially when it
secretary Jaime Bautista also said that comes to the jeepney, a symbol of
the agency is open to extending the locality and foreignness, of business
franchise of old traditional jeepneys and expression, and of tradition and
beyond December 31 to ensure that innovation.
there will be enough supply of PUVs
to serve the public. The LTFRB also
 The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023
AI Na’ko!: The Imminence of Artificial Intelligence
Imagine: you have to write an
essay about, let’s say, Jose Rizal’s
contributions to the Philippine
revolution, for an assignment
in school. As soon as you get the
time, you open up your browser
and head straight not to Google or
Ecosia, but to Chat-GPT.
Familiar ba? Such is the scenario,
perhaps, for many students who
survived the online set-up and are now
wholly dependent on digital tools to
complete their tasks. Not all, probably
(hopefully), but the number of people
using the artificial intelligence (AI) tool
has grown enough to cause concern,
especially in the academe.
But first: what are we even talking
about?
Ano Ito?
These days, instead of typing in
keywords into the Google search bar,
you can simply choose an AI program
and enter a text prompt. For example,
if you use Chat-GPT, you could type
“essay about Jose Rizal’s contributions
to the Philippine Revolution”, and the
program will give you a piece about
it complete with a title, introduction,
body, and conclusion within a few
minutes. It can be done for artworks,
too: you could type “Tom Cruise visiting
Divisoria” and get a picture similar
to the description – even if there are
no real photos of the Hollywood star
visiting the Filipino market.
Abundance of Items
Numerous programs depend on
FEATURES
Merwin Merquita
and promote the use of AI. One of
these is the aforementioned Chat-
GPT, which is a chatbot can not only
compose essays and other texts, but
may also write computer programs,
simulate chat rooms, play games,
and write business pitches. It can
also allegedly detect whether a text
is written by a bot (from the word
‘robot’).
As mentioned, some artworks are
also done by AI. Probably the most
popular program is Dall-E, which, like
Chat-GPT, came from OpenAI’s GPT
language models. Other well-known
programs are MidJourney, Stable
Diffusion, and Deep Dream Generator
(DDG).
These AI generators rely on really
large databases of art and text that
already exist – Stable Diffusion uses
100,000 gigabytes of images, while
Dall-E was trained on 400 million pairs
of images with text captions. While
prompts can be very general, they
can also lead to the usage of another
person’s work – often without consent.
Artificial Instinct
While AI can be a great help, it also
poses several ethical issues – including
the mentioned loss of consent when
using an artist’s or a writer’s work.
Since the beginning of the rise of AI,
numerous artists have rose up against
the programs, trending hashtags
such as #NoToAI and ensuring
their work would not be used in AI
databases. Some have explained that
AI-generated art is the exact opposite
of what art is – art is the product of
human experience and emotion, and
the creative process is as much as
what art is as the final piece. In this
light, AI art can also be viewed as
grounds for copyright infringement,
as it merely copies the style of other
artists. Additionally, due to its ease,
it may lead to the devaluation of the
work of artists – why spend time and
effort on a piece of work when you can
just type in a few words, click a button,
and get what you want?
Andaming Issues!
The question of legality still looms,
with issues ranging from copyright
infringement to child pornography. As
AI is still unregulated, content creators
are not entirely protected by the law
when their work is ‘scraped’ for an AI
program.
Professor Lionel Bently, director
of the Centre for Intellectual Property
and Information Law at Cambridge
University, explains that in order for
a copyright infringement case to
go through, an artist would need to
show the part of an AI output that had
reproduced a significant part of the
artist’s original creative expression.
Even if that was possible, not many
artists would have the means to fight
such legal battles.
The much darker aspect of AI
is manifested in the possibility of
its usage in crime, such as framing
innocent people, creating fake news
11
that seems believable, and utilizing it
in immorality. Stable Diffusion, for one,
had reports that it could be used to
create non-consensual pornography
and deepfakes. DDG also faced this
issue, as users allegedly tried to
generate photos of nude children,
despite the absence of such images in
the training dataset.
Additionally, student cheating
has arisen as a major problem,
especially following the lockdowns
and the online set-up. AI-generated
essays has raised the concerns on
how schools will determine what
constitutes as academic misconduct,
such as plagiarism, and how teachers
will ensure that written outputs are
genuinely done by their students
without putting the honest workers at
risk of accusations.
Augmenting Intellect (... or not?)
It cannot be denied that, as with
any piece of technology, AI can help
in making living easier. The question
is: at what cost? Is it worth it to
diminish one’s efforts just for another’s
convenience?
At the moment, the spread of
AI seems unstoppable – especially
with the domination of online and
digital tools, even in learning spaces.
At the very least, we can attempt to
analyze and discern how it affects
our experiences and attitudes, and
decide how this fabricated genius will
influence our own ways of living.

No Courage Without Fear:

The Worries ofYrishTeresian
Jane Vallo
Freshmen
Moving to a larger community may create an unpleasant emotion caused by the unfamiliarity of a situation; moreover, it anticipates the agitation
of not being able to fit in. Freshmen fears include socializing. According to some freshmen that were asked, some of them are afraid of the social
context in which society places them—the fear of academic validation in the tertiary level of education is one of the final steps to getting into the
real world. Most of the freshmen are unsure if they are taking the right path and how far they can go. Belongingness and adaptation are two of the
fundamental steps that one must possess in order to be emotionally and socially ready for the journey that’s ahead of them.
1. Academic fears they can blend in with in order to adapt while being at ease.
One of the main reasons why freshmen were afraid of entering a university 4. Financial
or academy was that some of them were pressured by the given concept of the Education must not be limited by every classification of social context, but
grade system and the burden of not being smart enough to go through their people still fear that their financial situation might put a halt on someone else’s
academic battles. In the long run, considering that this step will lead them to dream as they might be unable to provide a better education and materials
the real world, it puts double pressure on them, and anxiety prevails, whereas while being enrolled in their university.
everyone is afraid of something because of overthinking and rumination. 5. Pressure
2. Professors The fear of losing and failing puts everyone in horror, along with the
It’s a bit overwhelming for freshmen to enter a new system as well as pressure of the real world that’s ahead of them, and add the fact that family
the adapted way of learning by professors, whereas everyone is tasked to as everyone’s back support may put you in a digging hole, whereas one wrong
be independent in their own way, and it’s far different from the life of early move might kill the mood.
academic years. Change is inevitable, and fearing it is valid. However, let us not allow
3. Friends ourselves to be chained down by our fear; instead, let’s use it as a motivation
The fear of being left out is beyond everyone’s imagination, especially since for us to face the challenges in life and overcome them, one step at a time.
it is a new and unfamiliar environment. Every student opts to find a friend that
 12
ASCEND
Krisha Angelica Untalan
In the realm of boundless wonder,
Where dreams take flight and visions ponder,
There lies a path, untrodden and unseen,
Where Teresians wander, their spirits keen.
Ascend they must, with hearts untamed,
Beyond the boundaries that society named,
Their souls ablaze with fervent desire,
To reach the heights where dreams transpire.
Like shooting stars across the night,
They soar beyond conventional light,
Their wings unfurled, embracing the unknown,
To realms uncharted, their spirits are drawn.
With eyes alight, they seek to find,
The essence of dreams that dwell in their mind,
In celestial tapestries, they weave their tale,
Unfolding the secrets that the heavens entail.
Boundaries crumble beneath their stride,
As they venture forth, side by side,
They shatter the chains that hold them back,
And pave their path on an illuminated track.
Oh, Teresians, bold pioneers,
Guided by dreams, casting off your fears,
You transcend the limits of earthly sight,
And embrace the splendor of endless flight.
Beyond the boundaries, you chart your own way,
A symphony of souls, ascending each day,
May your journey inspire those who aspire,
To break free from confines and reach higher.
Teresians, ascend toward the limitless skies,
Where dreams reside and imagination flies,
For in your pursuit, the world finds its gleam,
As you forge a path to fulfill your celestial dream.
Tenacity
Jerry De Leon
Achieving my ultimate dream is a fantasy,
Until I ended up trying to make it a reality.
Expectations and tears are not ways but consistency,
Since no one can foresee what will happen subsequently.
Walking down a dark path forbids me to be victorious,
Every single step is quite challenging and arduous.
Regardless of all of that, it doesn’t stop me from being tenacious,
To face the dreaded fear and not be anxious.
Self-love seeks betterment and growth,
To inspire and to aspire are my greatest oaths.
To teach with confidence and dedication,
I become aware that I am almost at the top of my best route.
Graphic by Remelyn Munoz
LITERARY The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2
Divine Whispers:
Wandering through the Writings of Sta. Teresa of Avila
Tiffany De Austria
A broad and majestic symphony of faith.
Her spiritual beliefs, a holy revelation,
In God alone, I found genuine wisdom.
Her words inspire hearts, a divine invitation.
In the realm of mystical writing,
Where words flow with a heavenly rhythm,
Her writings authentically shine,
Symbolizing the oneness of the divine.
She leads the route by holding a pen,
Through palaces and swaying spirit realms,
A remedy for weary hearts in her words,
Blazing fires where love is bestowed
In pages rich in depth and grace,
Her knowledge finds its place,
The pieces of writings, a way to exceed,
Where all hearts are one, to God solely.
Written
Leslie Joy P. Mulleda
They say breathe, when everything feels suffocating,
Some say continue, when you ought to stop.
Feel it, even when nothing’s left but numbness,
Agony makes the timid resilient.
And if the path leads to despair,
Know that wounds leave marks of history,
Of you and your battles.
You may leave one day, but these pages you wrote,
Will remain---remembered.
Yes, You Can
Jerremy Mendoza
Under the moonlight I closed my eyes
The river flows, as I unleash my lies
I don’t have to pretend, for it’s just me and the moon
And the sparkle from the tears, will this be over soon?
The state of my body is not what it used to be
There’s a presence of nothingness, and exhaustion that
nobody sees
Little cries, I hear from my shaking mouth
The echo of giving up, and the melody of doubt
Then morning comes, mark of a new day
I get up and prepare, ready to take my way
The birds and trees cheered me on as I pass by
And now I see the reason, of why and why
I was destined to do it this way – to always choose ad-
vancing
I may carry tons of weight, but one day I’ll be marching
To a destination where I will meet my dreams
While my eyes rain, from the happiness that gleams
The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023
Matthew 22:39 Last Dance:
Making the most out of the last days with our College Family
Merwin Merquita
love is love, they say
and yet they
rob us of the chance to
make our love fruitful.
love is love, they say
and yet they
laugh when we show who we are
then tell us that being true is too
far.
love is love, they say
and yet they
tell us we are gross
for wearing our most loved
clothes.
love is love, they say
and yet they
tell us that our marriage
is enough reason for us to perish.
love is love, they say
and yet they
bar us from visiting
our lovers when they’re
suffering.
Grad Gallery: Moments and Memories of the 27th Commencement Exercises
love is love, they say
and yet they
whip out the sacred scriptures
to ‘prove’ we are lowly creatures.
LITERARY 13
Pauline Kay Serajoseph
The final days of college are a rush of emotions that play in our hearts like a bittersweet symphony. It is a
difficult balance between cherishing the past and accepting the uncertainties of the future. As we prepare to
say our final farewells to our college family, we find ourselves striving to make every moment matter, and to build
long-lasting memories that will fuel us in the years ahead.
Memories are the basic fabric of our existence in the arena of college life. They are the melodies that soothe
us during long hours of studying, the harmonies that echo in passionate talks in packed cafeterias, and the
rhythms that accompany laughter-filled campus trips. These are the gems we’ve accumulated throughout the
years, capturing the essence of our development and evolution. As the end of the world approaches, we must
embrace the beauty of memory. Allow us to walk along familiar paths, stand beneath archways that formerly
shielded us from the rain, and bask in the ethereal glow of sunsets that paint the campus in gold colors. Engage
in sincere exchanges of stories and experiences that elicit both laughter and tears. Visit the classrooms where
information was transformed into wisdom and explore the libraries where isolation fostered the development of
our thoughts. These are the symphonies of our college days, and they ought to be cherished with deep gratitude.
Yet, while we become engaged in nostalgia for what was, we must also look forward to what is to come. The
last days of college mark a transition into the unknown, where the pace of change determines the pace of the
future. We are on the verge of fresh beginnings, preparing to embark on uncharted territory. We must embrace
this shift with open hearts and minds, welcoming the opportunities and difficulties that lie ahead. While our
college family will soon disperse over the world, our joint experiences have given us the endurance and courage
to traverse the twisting paths ahead. Let us enjoy the moments of closure, saying goodbye to teachers who led
us with wisdom and compassion, as well as peers who became family, sharing laughter, tears, and the late
hours of discussions. The final days are a chance to show thanks for the opportunities for development and
connections that have formed us into the people we are today.
The last dance in the vast symphony of college farewells is a monument to the strength that lies in human
relationships, the splendor of shared moments, and the tenacity of the human spirit. It is a tribute to the past
and a hope for the future. Let us remember, as we accept the concluding notes of this chapter, that while
salutations may bring tears, they additionally unlock the door to new melodies and harmonies that await us in
the wide orchestra of life. The farewell dance with our college family is an emotional time when nostalgia and
hope collide, and where the memories we’ve made will live on in our hearts forever.

love is love, they say

and yet they
tell us we have an advantage
while our rights become a
privilege.

love is love, they say

and yet they
joke that murder and rape’s okay
if the victim is trans or gay.

love is love, they say

and yet they
legalize our pain
and tell us we’re insane

when we ask for respect

when we ask for dignity
when we ask for our rights
when we ask for equality

all you say is

love is love is love.
Photos by Maria Lorraine Espina and Mary Kristine Dinglasan
Graphics by Remelyn Munoz
 14
Photo by We are on Org
Agricultural Revolution:
Cultivating a Sustainable Future
Pauline Kay Serajoseph
Farmers and innovators are
spearheading a remarkable
revolution in the realm of
agriculture. With a firm
determination to overcome the
challenges posed by population
growth, climate change, and
diminishing arable land, they
embraced the practice of soilless
cultivation.
Soilless agriculture, commonly
known as hydroponics, is a method
of growing plants that only relies on
water-based nutritional solutions. It
is implemented alongside the Kratky
method, which harnesses passive
water supply and plant transpiration,
thus creating a self-regulating
system that aligns perfectly with
the principles of soilless farming.In
the pursuit of accessible and fresh
vegetables, Mrs. Ycel Robles Arenas,
resident of Balayong, Bauan and a
dedicated accounting staff at Sta.
Teresa College, ventured into the
world of hydroponics in 2019, igniting
a passion for sustainable agriculture
and inspiring her community with her
innovative approach.
The genesis of Mrs. Arenas’
hydroponic journey sprang from a
simple desire for readily available
vegetables, such as pechay and
lettuce. Faced with the inconvenience
of walking to the market to
purchase lettuce and subsequently
encountering disappointment in
the quality of store-bought produce,
she realized the need for a more
SCI-TECH
through Soilless Farming
reliable and sustainable solution.
Through meticulous research,
resourcefulness, and unwavering
dedication, she transformed her home
into a hydroponic haven, fostering the
growth of high-quality, pesticide-free
lettuce.
Through her hydroponic journey,
she not only secured a sustainable
supply of fresh vegetables but also
inspired her community. Now,
equipped with a new greenhouse
courtesy of her supportive husband,
Mrs. Arenas is set to expand her
green thumb and continue her
remarkable success. When Mrs. Arenas
first ventured into hydroponics,
she encountered a challenge that
many may perceive as enviable—
overabundance. However, she
swiftly turned this challenge into an
opportunity. Displaying remarkable
generosity, she distributed the surplus
produce to her grateful coworkers and
even ventured to the local market
to share her bountiful harvest. In
doing so, Mrs. Arenas not only gained
valuable experience in managing the
yield of her hydroponic farm but also
witnessed firsthand the numerous
benefits it holds.
As she and her husband reflected
on their hydroponic journey, they
recognized the transformative
potential of this innovative farming
method. The controlled environment
and precise nutrient delivery of
hydroponics offer several advantages,
including higher crop yields, efficient
space utilization, and reduced
water consumption. Furthermore,
the absence of soil-borne diseases
ensures the production of healthier
and pesticide-free vegetables,
contributing to improved food safety.
Mrs. Arenas’ journey exemplifies the
remarkable potential of hydroponics,
not only in addressing personal needs
but also in sharing the benefits with
the community.
As Mrs. Ycel Robles Arenas looks
ahead to a future teeming with a
diverse array of vegetables, including
the captivating realm of mushrooms
and planning of making chips out
of lettuce, she not only diversifies
her market but also serves as a
catalyst for innovation. Her journey
embodies the spirit of exploration
and entrepreneurship within the
hydroponic community, unlocking
new opportunities and culinary
delights.
This revolutionary activity of
hydroponics addresses not only the
difficulties of land scarcity but also the
challenges of water shortage. Because
water is recirculated inside the system,
hydroponics consumes substantially
less water than conventional
agriculture. Soilless farming will
enhance water management
techniques, assuring effective use of
this vital resource and encouraging
ecological sustainability.
Additionally, soilless agriculture is
a more ecologically friendly alternative
to traditional farming operations. The
The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2
practice of hydroponics continues to
revolutionize the way we grow crops.
With its ability to thrive in even the
most limited spaces, hydroponics
is proving to be a game-changer
for urban dwellers and small-scale
farmers alike. This innovative method
of soilless cultivation is gaining
traction as a practical solution to
the challenges of space constraints
and limited arable land. Likewise,
this strategy decreases the danger
of water and soil contamination
while protecting the health of local
ecosystems by limiting the usage of
chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
With the introduction of soilless
agriculture, farmers and innovators
are ready to overcome previously
insurmountable problems. Practicing
the way for a more resilient, efficient,
and ecologically responsible
approach to food production by
adopting this novel agricultural
technology. The future of agriculture
is brighter than ever, thanks to
soilless farming technologies that
are poised to transform the sector.
As hydroponics farming continues to
flourish, it represents a transformative
force that empowers individuals
and communities to overcome the
limitations of traditional agriculture,
paving the way for a sustainable
and prosperous future where fresh,
nutritious food is cultivated within our
reach, regardless of land constraints or
environmental obstacles.
The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023 SCI-TECH 15

ARTEMIS II: Pioneering the Era

of Women Astronauts on the Moon Pauline Kay Serajoseph

Photo by NASA

In November 2024, a historic stride for space exploration and gender equality, NASA’s ARTEMIS II mission is set to send the first woman astronaut to
the Moon as part of the ambitious Artemis course of action. This historic occasion not only highlights outstanding technological breakthroughs but also
represents a tremendous step forward in encouraging diversity and representation in the scientific community.
The team comprises four that have long existed in the area in-space rendezvous and proximity ARTEMIS II ushers in a new age
members, namely NASA commander of space travel. This historic event operations demonstration. Then, the of planetary exploration that values
Reid Wiseman, who serves as the will rekindle the hopes of numerous Orion will fire its main engine to send it variety and aspires for inclusiveness.
commander of the mission; NASA young girls, motivating them to pursue into a lunar free-return trajectory and It paves the way for a future in which
mission specialist Christina Koch, professions in STEM disciplines and make its journey back to Earth, female explorers, scientists, and
who holds the world record for the demonstrate that no goal is out of The selection of the first female technologists will play increasingly
longest spaceflight by a female reach. astronaut on ARTEMIS II was a hard significant parts in deciphering
astronaut and is slated to be the first The innovative technology that and comprehensive procedure. It the universe’s secrets. As mankind
woman to embark on a lunar mission; is at the forefront of this mission is entailed thorough assessments of embarks on historic missions to the
NASA pilot Victor Glover, an African- represented by the Orion spacecraft the prospects’ technical abilities, Moon and further afield, ARTEMIS II
American naval aviator; and Canadian and the Space Launch System (SLS). physical health, mental fortitude, serves as a light of hope, a tribute to
Space Agency (CSA) mission specialist The Orion spacecraft has been and ability to work well in groups. human perseverance and enticement,
Jeremy Hansen, a former fighter pilot. thoroughly developed and tested The final pick reflects the pinnacle of and a reminder that no goal is too far
The mission is the second in order to safely transport people talent, competence, and unalterable away to be realized.
scheduled flight of the Artemis to the depths of space and back. It devotion from an ensemble of highly
program and the first crewed Artemis combines cutting-edge life support qualified female astronauts.
mission. It is tentatively scheduled systems, navigation equipment, and The relevance of ARTEMIS II extends
to launch in November 2024 and will radiation protection to assure the beyond scientific investigation. It
last roughly ten days. It is expected to crew’s safety and comfort during symbolizes growth and equality,
launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida. the long voyage. The mission will be casting light on women’s enormous
ARTEMIS II, designated after the propelled by NASA’s next-generation contributions to many aspects of life,
Greek goddess of the Moon, is a tribute rocket, the SLS, and will have enough including space travel. The first woman
to humanity’s insatiable curiosity and thrust to drive the craft toward its lunar astronaut’s steps on the lunar surface
desire to push the limits of possibility. trajectory. will encourage individuals from all
By naming a woman as the first After the Orion spacecraft is sent areas of life to question cultural
astronaut for this trip, NASA is not only to high Earth orbit, the crew will standards, embrace their passions,
making a strong statement but also perform checkouts of the spacecraft’s and break outside of the confines of
breaking down gender boundaries life support systems and complete an gender stereotypes.
 16 DEVCOM
The Glees of Bauan’s 22nd Sublian Festival 2023
The municipality of Bauan has
welcomed a joyous celebration, as
the town’s 22nd Sublian festival
has taken place with the theme,
“Kasaysayan, Kaunlaran, at Kultura
Para Sa Kinabukasan”, which
highlighted various activities that
had been opened for the people
who opted to join and participate
in the pursuits prepared for
Bauangeños. Regarding this, the
festivity kicked off from April 24 to
May 5, 2023, as some competitions
and activities began before the
exact date of the main celebration.
Correspondingly, the first
undertaking was the successful ALAB
(Ating Likha Alay sa Bauan) Exhibit
that embarked from April 24 to May
5, 2023. The display showcased the
aesthetic and creative artworks of
the members of the two groups,
Arte Bauan and Arte Likha, held in
the Bauan Municipal Hall Lobby.
Moreover, it was visited by many
people, either municipality residents
or visitors from other towns.
Following are the events that
happened last April 30, 2023.
First, was the thanksgiving mass
followed by the First Bauan On the
Spot Group Art Competition that was
held at Bauan Municipal Hall. It was
engaged in by participants from the
locality, particularly the Bauangeño
students. Indeed, it was a triumph for
Teresians as the group Starlites from
BSED2 won third place.
Next was the Mini Trade Fair
that ran from May 1 until May 3,
2023. The local products and native
delicacies of Bauan were the peak
of the said activity which was an act
of connectedness to the Municipal
Agriculture Office as part of the
festival, and it was held at Bauan
Plaza. This even preceeded the
One Bauan Boodle Fight where
employees of Bauan enjoyed the
mouthwatering foods prepared for
Photo by Micko Louise Aldovino
Princess Gem Mauhay
Photos by Bauan MIO
the celebration.
Private and public school teachers
gathered to celebrate the One Bauan
DepEd Night.
Select students of the municipality
performed.
Lastly, the First Bakbakan sa
Bauan Motor & Trike Show had blown
up as enjoyable and rocking vehicles
were displayed during the night
event.
Following are the events that
happened last May 1, 2023.
Initial was the 3.1 km fun run
titled, “PISTAKBO: Run with Paint,
One in Faith” spearheaded by the
Sangguniang Kabataan- Pambayang
Pederasyon ng Bauan and the Zumba
dance activity led by the dancers
from Bellrocks Gym. It started from
Catalina Lake Residence and ended
at Bauan Plaza. Furthermore, it was
followed by the Zumba activity and
the awarding of the winners of the
fastest runners and of the raffle draw.
After that, the most awaited
Mutya ng Bauan 2023 was held at
BFP-Bauan holds fire safety training
During the Fire Prevention
Month in Bauan that happened
Last March 2023, people all over
the municipality witnessed the
motorcade that BFP R4A BAUAN
FIRE STATION conducted that
aimed to spread knowledge that
can save lives.
The Fire Department did a
motorcade around Bauan to officially
start Fire Prevention Month with the
theme, “SA PAG-IWAS SA SUNOG,
HINDI KA NAG-IISA!” Furthermore,
the Bauan Plaza. The newly-crowned
mutya was from Manghinao Proper,
Jhazlyn Gwen Ite- the empowered
teen queen of Bauan.
Following are the events that
happened last May 2, 2023.
Foremost was the highlight
of the festivity, “Ang Salubong sa
Magkapatid na Mahal na Poon ng
Bauan at Alitagtag- Sublian Dance”.
The Magkapatid na Poon met at
the Binukalan Shrine in the town
of Alitagtag where there was a
Holy Mass. Then, the Magkapatid
na Poon was picked up once more
for the Sublian in Bauan, as the
Poons passed, worshippers raised
lit candles and threw flowers
genuinely. Before reaching the patio
of the Immaculate Conception Parish
Church, numerous groups, including
students and teachers, LGU staff,
and other organizations, saluted
and performed the Subli dance
at the Manghinao Proper bridge.
The Subli dance proceeded as a
holy concelebrated service for the
Naomi Mapa
dated on March 14, 2023, the Fire
Department of Bauan visited Sta.
Teresa College to inform and give
knowledge to Teresians. The speakers
and the firemen and firewomen
granted students the chance to look
at the fire department’s equipment
and were able to use and enjoy it
firsthand with the assistance of our
firefighters.
The objective of this event is
to provide knowledge and spread
cognizance about the specific
The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2
Magkapatid na Poon was held inside
the church.
At a later time, talented
Bauangeños flaunted their various
expertise as Bauan Got Talent took
place, which was enjoyed by the
audience at Bauan Plaza in Orense.
The Dynamix Crew was hailed the
grand champion that bagged a total
of 30,000 pesos.
Following are the events that
happened last May 3, 2023.
The early event was The Mutya ng
Bauan Titleholders Motorcade. The
beauty of those young ladies was
made known in the whole town as
they joined the ride routing the whole
municipality. Truly, Bauangeñas got
that elegance and female fatale.
As the endpoint, the rakistas
of Bauan had shown their rocking
talents in music at MUSIKlaban sa
BAUAN. The group, TAKE FIVE was
held champion, 5:30 Band as the 1st
Runner-up, SALINLAJI as the 2nd
Runner-up, and IMAHINASYON being
the 3rd Runner-up.
disaster. By doing this event,
students are now aware of what are
the possible things that they can
see and they can do during a fire
outbreak.
Overall, the event was a success
and beneficial to everyone. This
could possibly save a life if such an
occurrence takes place. The Fire
Department of Bauan made this
event enjoyable and at the same
time an event that students can learn
something from.
 The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023 DEVCOM 17
Embarking on a New Chapter Princess Gem Mauhay

Teresians were truly proud of
their comrades as an average of
82.35% passing rate was obtained
by the newly licensed professional
teachers under Bachelor of
Elementary Education, and an
average of 80.00% passing rate was
gained by the latterly LPTs under
Bachelor of Secondary Education.
The March 2023 Board Licensure
Examination for Professional Teachers
(BLEPT) passers were recognized by
the whole Teresian community as they
led the way for success and ushered a
huge achievement for the education
department.
Felicitations for passing the board
examination! Your Teresian family is
delighted by your accomplishment!
Achieve higher heights, teachers.

Reminiscing the Past Clean up-Kalumala Heights

Raphael Fabregas
This year, we are all honored
to be able to celebrate the Balik
Kasaysayan 2023 in the Shrine of
our Heroes at Plaza Orenze, with
the theme, “Bauan: Buhayin ang
Kamalayan sa Kasaysayan, Susi
sa Patuloy na Pag-unlad.” The
event was led by our City Mayor,
Mr. Ryanh Dolor along with Vice
Mayor Ronald E. Cruzat, including
the different officials of our
municipality.
The event started with a holy
mass as a thanksgiving act, for
our municipality still withstands
everything against all odds. Then,
the special guests were welcomed by
offering flowers and candles along
with the ringing of the bell of the
church. The highlight of the said event
was the awarding of our new heroes in
Bauan that showed their kindness and
support to our fellow Filipino citizens.
One of them was Capt. Maximo M.
Dalawampu who was involved to aid
and rescue of people in an accident at
our oceans.
By the same token, one of the
important parts of the event was
the tribute and granting of the
posthumous award to our former
City Mayor Policarpio D. Boongaling
who served our citizens in the year
1986. The award was claimed by her
daughter Kgg. Blandine B. Rosales, a
former City Official.
The Balik-Kasaysayan is an event
that commemorates the sacrifice
and bravery of our heroes in Bauan,
Batangas in the World War 2 period.
As we now enjoy our freedom in our
beloved land, we celebrate and pay
tribute to those honorary heroes that
fight for their lives for the future of our
homeland.
(A place to go)
Jay-ar Marcial
In a recent post circulating online of both a reminder or a warning for
regarding the mountainous trash concern in the area.
in Kalumala Heights, the Alagao This initiative will help make the
Barangay Council spearheaded “Little Baguio’’ better so that the
by Mayor Ryanh Dolor created a visitors can constantly witness the
task force to conduct a manhunt beauty of the said place. The scenery
cleaning to remove all the trash will continue captivating the hearts of
in the parameter. Included in this those dropping by if the cleanliness
effort were the public reminders can be observed through practicing
for the visitors to be responsible self-discipline. Kalumala Heights is a
when it comes to proper waste place where you can feel the fresh air
disposal to avoid pollution, and for and find your peace of mind giving
the beauty of the place to remain. that “inner calm” that will proffer such
On the other hand, Zorren Chavez, a tourist spot.
a resident of Alagao posted on his Kalumala Heights provided
Facebook account stating, “Hindi general do’s and don’ts in visiting such
mapapanatili ang kalinisan kung places to ensure that cleanliness and
hindi tayo magtutulong-tulong immaculateness will be practiced
at hindi magiging responsableng accordingly. Indeed, Kalumala Heights
mamamayan ng Bayan ng Bauan at is a place that brings smiles, a place to
lalawigan ng Batangas.” It was words go where you will want it all.

Bauangueños not short of job opportunities RP Blu Boys tally twin-win

Princess Gem Mauhay
It is truly “We are One in Bauan”
as the municipality continues
to launch local job recruitments
exclusively for Bauangeños.
Various career opportunities
either locally or abroad were being
opened as different companies are
hiring for job openings.
The special recruitment activities
welcome Bauangeños to work abroad
such as in Australia, Dubai, Guam, and
more. Similarly, job positions are also
open locally for Jollibee- Manghinao,
Robinsons Supermarket, etc.
Photo by Bauan MIO
TO GREATER OPPORTUNITIES. Jobseekers
sign up for various positions offered by
participating companies.
PESO Bauan receives with open
arms the job hunters as many
occupations chances await them.
in Asia Softball Cup
Marefel Joy Dili
KOCHI, Japan – the Philippine
Blu Boys won two consecutive
games, kicking off their
championship defense at the
2023 Men’s Softball Asia Cup,
June 25.
Partnered with MLhuillier Kwarta
Padala, The Blu Boys initially showed
their strength by defeating India, 5-1,
then they came back a few hours
later and destroyed Chinese Taipei
7-1.
But on Monday, June 26, the Blu
Boys had their hands full as they
faced off against Singapore in the
morning and the reigning champion
Japan in the afternoon.
The representing roster list
include outfielders Denmark Bathan,
Janzen Gaspi, Francis Generoso, Efril
Mercado, Reagan Parco, and Gerone
Riparir, while Leo Barredo, alongside
see page 5...
 18 SPORTS
Filipinas’ #49 spot highest in WC ranking
Adidas launches PH squad jerseys; Coverage to be held via stream
Before the nation’s first World Cup campaign, coach Alen Stajcic said the Philippine women’s football team’s rise to a record-breaking 49th place in
the International Association Football Federation (FIFA) World Rankings is an indication that the program is working just fine.
Photo by Footy Headlines
GIRL POWER. The Philippine Women’s Football Team proves to be a force to be reckoned with in the global football arena after reaching the highest
placement for the country in the world rankings.
Following their participation in the
Pinatar Cup in Spain last month, the
Filipinas rose four spots from number
53, which they had held since June.
Even though the Philippines lost
all three of their games against higher-
ranked Wales, Scotland, and Iceland,
the trip was nonetheless beneficial for
their rankings.
The Southeast Asian Games in
Cambodia and the first round of the
2024 Olympic qualifiers for Paris were
placed ahead of the World Cup in the
rankings.
Into the donning
The national team announced
last June 5 that it had signed a five-
year kit agreement with the German
sportswear company Adidas. At the
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, the
brand released three kits for the
Filipinas, including a home kit (Sipa
at Tiyaga), an away kit (Ang Bagong
Yugto), and the third kit (Alab ng Puso),
which primarily drew inspiration and a
concept from the Philippine flag.
Anthony Frangos, the architect
behind the said kits, explained that the
PH bags 10th gold as Kim Mangrobang defends duathlon title
Kim Mangrobang successfully
retained her duathlon title at the
32nd Southeast Asian Games last
May 07, 2023.
Mangrobang engaged in a
5-kilometer run from which she timed
20 minutes and 13 seconds placing
initially at third.
The Filipina athlete then composed
in the 20-kilometer cycle stage placing
for second.
Jacob Jodloman
uniforms would be used as the official
kit for the team’s FIFA Stint to be held
in New Zealand.
Along with the kits, the Filipinas-
branded fan merch has also been
replenished as the initial run on the
shelves of the adidas Brand Center
store in Glorietta, Makati, lasted just
three days.
Coverage ‘under-age’
With only six weeks until they begin
to play in New Zealand, the Filipinas
may not get the opportunity to be
viewed by a larger audience at home
because no local media corporation
has made a serious effort to secure
the rights to transmit FIFA’s premier
women’s football competition.
The Philippine Football Federation
(PFF) is unable to participate in
the discussions because potential
broadcasters must directly negotiate
with FIFA.
However, according to sources, one
channel initially expressed interest in
obtaining the rights for the competition
scheduled for July 20 to August 20. But
Tap Go, which broadcasts a number of
Cedrick Magsumbol
Mangrobang then topped the 2.5
kilometer run with an accumulated
total time of 1 hour and 4:25.3 minutes
enabling her to secure the highly
sought gold medal.
It was a close fight between the
Filipina pride and the silver medalist
from Vietnam, Thi Phuong Trinh
Nguyen. The former was ahead of 48
seconds to the latter who obtained
an accumulated total time of 1 hour
sports and entertainment channels on
cable and offers online live streaming
services, ultimately made the decision
to withdraw. Even though the Filipinas
are playing, no local broadcaster
has since expressed a willingness to
acquire the World Cup rights.
In the past, broadcasters holding
World Cup rights also had access to
stream the women’s competition as
part of a package, much like ABS-CBN
did in 2015 and 2019 when the United
States team won both matches with a
roster of A-list celebrities.
However, FIFA decided that
the broadcast rights for this year
would be distinct from those for the
men’s competition, which has led to
persistent problems in the discussions
with numerous European nations over
what the international governing body
considered to be “lowball” proposals.
If a similar situation arises here and
no television agreement is in place,
Filipino fans may have no choice but
to watch content either through Fifa+
or illegal websites.
and 5:13.5 minutes. Maharani Azhri
Wahyuningt of Indonesia got a time
of 1 hour and 6:17.4 minutes resulting
her to settle for bronze.
The 32nd Southeast Asian games
was held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
which started from May 05 lasting to
the 16th of 2023. With 58 gold, 85 silver,
and 117 bronze medals, the Philippine
delegation settled in 5th place among
11 countries that participated.
The Leaf Publications
Vol. 27 Issue No. 2
from Nuggets clinches...
With a game-high 28 points and
16 rebounds, the Nuggets were led
by two-time MVP Nikola Jokič, setting
history as the first second-round pick
(2016, 41st) to win the Finals Most
Valuable Player (MVP) award.
Jokič, 28, surpassed Wilt
Chamberlain (seven) for the most
triple-doubles ever in a single
postseason run with a total of ten.
According to ESPN Stats & Info, he
also concluded the postseason as
the only player in NBA history to
lead all players in points, rebounds,
and assists in a single postseason.
Michael Porter Jr. of Denver scored
16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds,
and Jamal Murray added 14 points.
Denver had trouble making free
throws and 3-pointers, but it still
had a lead of up to seven points in
the fourth quarter. However, the
Heat responded on a 13-5 run to
take the lead with 1:58 remaining in
the game, 89-88. The Mile High City
scored the game’s final six points
on a putback layup by Bruce Brown
with 91 seconds left and free throws
by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and
Brown in the closing minute. Heat
players attempted a number of
3-pointers, but Miami was unable to
connect.
Miami, an eight-seed that
shocked the NBA by making it to the
Finals, was led by Jimmy Butler, who
had 21 points, and Bam Adebayo,
who had 20 points.
The Nuggets won despite
shooting only 5-for-28 from outside
the arc (20 of their first 22 shots were
missed) and going 13-23 from the
foul line.
Before the 1976–1977 season, the
Nuggets, who had spent nine seasons
playing in the American Basketball
Association since 1967, switched
to the NBA. The said franchise had
reached the conference finals four
times in franchise history (1978,
1985, 2009, 2020), losing each time to
the Los Angeles Lakers. This was the
team’s 47th season in the NBA prior
to the 2022-23 season.
 The Leaf Publications
February 2023 - July 2023
The Rising Popularity
of E-sports
Joan Vien Magmanlac
Esports become popular
nowadays and the municipality
of Bauan is now supporting and
providing trainings for the gamers
with the lead of Mayor Ryanh Dolor.
Esports is a digital game created for
a variety of digital devices, including
computers, portable game consoles,
mobile phones, the Internet, and other
digital devices. It is also a video gaming
competition sometimes known as
electronic sports, and e-games.
Professional gamers fight against one
another frequently in tournaments for
financial rewards and to strive for the
top rankings in their preferred game.
Dota 2, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang,
League of Legends, Valorant, Fortnite,
Counterstrike, Call of Duty, and Player
Unknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG),
among others, are some of the titles
that are popular in Philippine eSports,
especially among players who play at
home.
May 30, 2023, when Mayor Dolor
visited Team Bauan Representatives
to E-Palarong Pambansa which has
been recognized as national level
multi-Esports tournament circuit
welcoming Esports athletes and
teams from towns and municipalities
all around the country to compete in
five-medal competitions endorsed
by National Youth Commission.
The e-games feature mobile and PC
games, under mobile games were
League of Legends: Wild Rift, Call of
Duty: Mobile and Mobile Legends:
Bang Bang while in PC games were
League of Legends and VALORANT.
The games were all results from the
poll created by E-Palarong Pambansa
answered by the majority of Filipino
SPORTS
esports athletes. However, prior to the
poll, it was in a controversy of being
caught to an attempt of manipulation
of vote boosted by different bot
accounts which later found out that
there is no controlling of votes and
they have stated that they appreciate
the assistance of the various gaming
groups in the nation and “are taking
steps to prevent similar issues in
the future while continuing to work
towards creating opportunities for
Filipino gamers.” Moreover, the game
has three phases which were qualifiers
stage, top 4 teams from each regional
team will move from this phase to
group stage, the second phase that
top 2 teams from each group advances
to finals and play-offs stage, last phase
which will determine the winner out
of 8 teams. The said event will be on
June, July, and August respectively.
Furthermore, the Municipality of
Bauan joined three categories namely
VALORANT, which will be played by
Moses Abrea as irisRR, Louis Alcayde
as Leaurix, Alan Perez as Z1022, Lanz
Aldovino as Xird, Edward Radam as
Syntxx, John Ingco as Gyuri, John
Dalangin as Cleng, meanwhile the
team under Mobile Legends: Bang
Bang were Kurt Catimbang as Kurtyy,
Knoll Cedric as Lekyyy, Kyle Higuit as
Bibss, Irvin Fider as Yankee, Ckobe
Tatlonghari as CK, Kamir Santos as
Waway and Call of Duty: Mobile to
be played by James Esteban as Zed,
Andrei Austria as Yaneh, Darvic Bejer
as Darv, Whelle Caringal as Circle,
Louis Austria as Astra, Lance Abante
as Obstacles. The gamers received
training at Bauan Municipal Training
Hall.
Collegians flaunt athleticism,
teamwork in one-day sports fest
Darren Rey Talain
Photo by Mary Kristine Dinglasan
After a protracted hiatus due
to the pandemic, STC’s college
department held a one-day
sporting event last April 27, 2023,
organized by the institution’s
Future Educators Society (FES),
Business, Office, and Management
Society (BOMS), and the Computer
Informatics and Communications
Society (CICS).
With the restrictions gradually
lifted, the involved bodies set aside a
day to promote sportsmanship and
camaraderie, aligned with the school’s
Core Values. For both basketball
and volleyball competitions, teams
made up of first- through fourth-year
students were set up, bearing the
colors of Benetton Pride (Red, Yellow,
Green, Blue).
To progress to the championship
game against Steven Argana and the
Green team, who swiftly eliminated
the Red Team led by the Season MVP
Gabriel Lara, 96-71, the Blue Team
used the cunning of captain Ian
Lunar to dominate the eliminations,
following an easy pindown on injury-
19
from Mark Anthony Abrahan rifted
Greens’ progress in the remaining
minutes of the fourth quarter,
exponentially taking the lead with 21
consecutive points, ending the game
with an 81-102 victory for the Blues.
Things continued to heat up as the
volleyball event preceded basketball’s
rally. The green squad and the red
team squared off in the final round. In
a match that was decided by scores of
25-23, 25-21, and 25-15, Kim Abrenica,
who is also the Most Valuable
Player, rallied the post for the Reds’
championship. Meanwhile, Jamielyn
Bautista from the Yellow Team, was
hailed as the Best Server in this men-
and-women mix-up.
Coordinated by the College
Student Government, the said event
served as a pilot testing for player
selection in the upcoming Crusaders’
roster for AY 2023-2024, wherein
several tournaments are expected to
return. The Crusaders’ Organization,
led by Mr. Joseph D. Balita, are
currently in talks for a possible multi-
sport expansion which will include

Kaiju to play in NBA Summer League

plagued Yellow squad headed by taekwondo, baseball, futsal, lawn
Jhoebert Erigbuagas, 109-82. After an tennis, swimming, and e-Sports
Diserie Jorca exchanging of layups and and-1s from squads for the incoming academic
Kai Sotto, among a number of After his three-year tenure with both sides, a series of three-pointers tenure.
up-and-coming young players from NBL Australia’s Adelaide 36ers and
the NBA and G-League, hopes to BLeague’s Hiroshima Dragonflies, PH Softball Team rises in Women’s Asia Cup
make the most of his opportunity Sotto recently took part in minicamps Cedrick Magsumbol
in the pre-season games of the with the Dallas Mavericks and Utah
National Basketball Association Jazz, as well as a tryout with the New The Philippine Girls against Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Ann
(NBA). York Knicks. However, Orlando was successfully marked their entry Antolihao led the team against its
The 7-foot-3 Filipino has the one who invited Sotto in. If given in the Women Softball Asia Cup match-up with Korea contributing
reportedly been invited by an NBA enough playing time, Sotto and the as they defeated Hong Kong five batters.
team to participate in the upcoming Magic will face Portland, Indiana, and and South Korea in consecutive The Philippine softball team also
NBA Summer League, according Detroit first-round picks. matches. aims to obtain three spots to the
to seasoned sportscaster Joaquin Kaiju entered the NBA Draft in 2022 The team escalated Hong Kong WBSC Women’s World Cup in July.
Henson. “Just got word … Kai Sotto but was not selected. If he does well after five battings with a 7-0 scoring “We are ready. It’s time to show the
has been invited to join the Orlando this time, he might soon find himself and subsequently executed a 2-0 world what we have been practicing
Magic in the NBA Summer League in on an NBA court, fulfilling the dream shutout opposing Korea to obtain for and I’m confident the girls will
Las Vegas on July 7-17! Wow! That’s of being the first pure Filipino-born lead in the standings. deliver…”, RP Blu Girls Coach Randy
amazing!”, revealed Henson in his player to play in the oldest basketball Under the name of Glory Dizer penned.
Facebook post. league in the world. Alonzo, three hits were conceded

Vol. 27 Issue No. 2 | The Official Student Publication of Sta. Teresa College | February 2023 - July 2023
Photo by Bauan MIO
Kress Cup 2023
PH’s grandest pump boat race
docks in Bauan
In January 2023, JGO Ventures
Corporation, the nation’s sole
distributor of Kress Power
Products and Power Tools, hosted
the Kress Cup Bancarera National
Championship, the largest pump
boat racing competition in the
nation.
The most significant award ever
awarded by a boat racing organizer
in history was named by Kress as
the racing to 1 Million Pesos. Kress is
actively in charge of two significant
initiatives for the welfare of farmers and
fishermen. The first is the Kapitan Kress
Bayaning Mangingisda and Magsasaka
Award, which honors select farmers
and fishermen for their unselfish and
courageous service to the nation and
encourages more farmers to follow
in their footsteps. Additionally, as a
reward for fishermen’s commitment
to the nation’s food security, Kress
provides fishermen with enjoyment
and excitement through Kress Cup
Bancarera National Championship.
Additionally, the boat racing
SPORTS
Joan Vien Magmanlac
competition is a part of Kress’ brand
strategy to improve the perception
of boat racing in the Philippines. It
also strives to strengthen the tourism
sector and increase revenue for the
host city or municipality.
Moreover, the event will have six
regional eliminations in the Luzon,
Visayas, and Mindanao regions in
the Kress Cup 2023 series, starting in
January 2023. In November 2023, the
National Finals will feature the winners
of the elimination. Thus, no engine
modifications will be permitted during
the six (6) regional grand prix races.
This will allow fishers who cannot
afford a costly race engine upgrade to
participate in the race.
On June 2 - 4, 2023, when Kress
Cup 2023 happened in Bauan,
Batangas with much anticipated race
between Regions 4A, 4B, NCR, and
5, top racing teams from the four
regions compete to determine which
team is the quickest in Southern
Luzon. The event is in partnership
with Municipality of Bauan, Kress,
Nuggets clinches
Ecooter, Wespro, Dartek,Lucky LMB,
Bancarera Philippines, Atty. Octava
Propeller and Mayor Ryanh Dolor.
Inspection of engine happened in the
first NBA Finals
first day and the following days were
the elimination round and awarding.
trophy over Miami
The event was graced by Mayor Ryanh Jokič bags Finals MVP
Dolor, Vice Mayor Ronald Cruzat and Princess Latido
SB Members - Hon. Leon R. Ramos Jr.,
Hon. Guenn Abante & Hon. Michael
Endaya and members of IMT.
Here are the list of the Winners of
Kress Cup 2023 Philippine Pump Boat
Regional Championship
Regional Champio - DVRT
(Alabat,Quezon)
Regional 1st Runner-up -
Probinsyano (Sto. Tomas, Batangas)
Regional 2nd Runner-up- Menudo
(Mabini, Batangas) - Regional 2nd
Runner-up
LGU Bauan sent their Photo by Los Angeles Times
congratulations to all winners and After defeating the Miami Heat
participants from Regions 4-A, 4B, 5, 94-89 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals
and NCR through Mayor Dolor and for at Ball Arena, the Denver Nuggets
choosing the Municipality of Bauan as earned their first NBA title, June 14.
the venue for the competition. see page 18...