MONUMENTUM ARTICLES – 1

1.Story Line for Two Besties (Articles of Five Cafes)

In the busy city of Olongapo, two best friends, Donna and Maxene, embark on a weekend adventure of
cafe hopping. With their shared love for coffee and culinary exploration, they set out to discover the
hidden gems scattered across the vibrant neighborhoods of the city.

Their journey begins in the charming corridors of Raymundo St. Cor Sampson Rd., Subic Bay Freeport
Zone, Olongapo, Zambales, where they stumble upon a cozy Bali-inspired corner cafe with rustic decor
and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air.

Fueled by caffeine and excitement, Maxene and Donna hop from one cafe to another, each offering its
own unique ambiance and specialty drinks. From the laid-back bistro-style restaurant with European
flair, Xtremely Xpresso, to a cozy haven for comfort food and coffee lovers in 727, they immerse
themselves in the eclectic flavors and cultural experiences that each cafe has to offer.

Along the way, they found a cafe known for its divine aroma of freshly ground coffee and a rich flavor
profile that brings a shared sense of solace whispering through the air. They encounter colorful
characters and forge new friendships, bonding over their shared passion for good food and great
company. With each cafe they visited, Donna and Maxene's friendship grew stronger, their laughter
echoing through the bustling streets of the city.

Guess where they went... As the sun sets on their cafe-hopping adventure, Donna and Maxene find
themselves at the two seated tables, savoring the last sips of their favorite drinks from SEFINAS. With
hearts full of memories and bellies full of delicious treats, they celebrate the endless adventures that
await them and the unbreakable bond of friendship that will always keep them connected. As they sip
on their drinks and indulge in buttery pastries, they reminisce about their fondest memories and share
their dreams for the future as marketers (Maxene L. Viray)

2. A Takeaway to a Wonderful Journey at Zambales (Articles of Victory Liner)

Victory Liner is one of the main bus transportation companies in the Philippines, offering daily trips to
Pampanga, Baguio, Zambales, Nueva Vizcaya, Tarlac, Bulacan, Bataan, Pangasinan, and the Cagayan
Valley. A 75-year-old bus company based in Caloocan City. They offer nostalgic experiences on budget-
friendly trips. “Ang Kayo ay Mapaglingkuran ay Amin na ring Kasiyahan” was the slogan in the 1970s.
Victory Liner is determined to be reliable and trustworthy public transport in Northern Luzon. Explore
the wonderful places in Zambales with Victory Liner.

Olongapo City is renowned as the gateway to some of the most prominent tourist destinations in
Zambales, and the best means of transportation is via bus, which Victory Liner provides. Victory Liner is
a transportation company founded by Jose Isaac Hernandez, Leonardo, and Eugenion, his brothers-in-
law. They gathered parts to build a truck that could transport patis (fish sauce), bagoong (shrimp paste),
and rice. However, after learning that there was a high demand for public transportation, Jose quickly
changed his mind, thinking that going in that direction would be a more lucrative business. Enjoy your
vacation at Zambales' tourist spots, such as relaxing at Nagsasa Cove. Hike at Mt. Pinatubo, harvest
mangoes at Rosa Farm, and learn history at the Ramon Magsaysay Museum. (Maxene L. Viray, Carl
Christian Alumpi, and Jaubrey Yuann R. Parcon.)

3.Flores De Mayo (The Santacruzan)

Santacruzan is being held nightly for the whole month of May. It is the most beautiful and colorful
month of the year. Wherein we celebrate the story of how Queen Helena, or “Reyna Elena,” mother of
Constantine the Great, uncovered the Holy Cross, on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Flores de Mayo is
held in every town all around the country. It may not be as grand as Sinulog, but it is just as important.
The festival is one of the many things that show just how religious the Philippines is and how joyful the
Filipinos are as a people.

Alexia portrays Mary as the most beautiful queen of Flores de Mayo. The flowers that she was holding
were offered as a sign of honor to Mama Mary. She processes under an arch festooned with flowers and
carries a grand bouquet.

Mellary represents Reyna Fe (Queen Faith). She is the first theological virtue, faith, and she is carrying a
cross. Faith is the capacity to obey God and to believe that what He has revealed is true. "Work-
sanctioned faith is dead." (Maxene L. Viray)

4. Magsaysay Nightlife (Articles of M2200)

2200 Superclub is a club that shines at night with its party lights and loud music, which gives life at night.
It is a place full of fun activities and experiences of the nightlife in Olongapo City. If you're new to the
city and are looking to party to kill some time, 2200 is the club to visit to interact with other partygoers,
make new friends you can hang out with, and maybe find your one and only in the middle of the crowd
shining within your eyes. The club offers a dance platform with different DJs performing live, showcasing
their talent for music to the audience, and a menu of appetizers with different types of alcoholic and
non-alcoholic drinks for some customers who only want to go out but don't want to be drunk.

In the photo, we want to show the tribal fashion that encompasses several different cultural influences.
This dynamic style allows the wearer to explore new and exotic places through a shared love for fashion.
This type of style fits the 2200 Superclub because it is full of different people with different styles to
promote their own fashion and styles that show their personalities through their own unique display of
style. It allows the wearer to explore new places, make new friends, develop bonds through partying,
and enjoy the best that life has to offer, just like in 2200. The overall ambience of the club truly
highlights Filipino cultures in terms of friendliness and social culture to a considerable extent. Both
tourists and locals find it to be a welcoming place because of the hospitality attitude that is present and
one of the characteristics of Filipinos toward newcomers, visitors, and clients. Filipino social life is
strongly embedded in group events and activities like karaoke and group dances, which are very
common in the nightlife scene. All in all, 2200 Superclub's nightlife possesses the vibrant spirit and
cultural fusion that define Olongapo City by being unique and fusing parts of traditional Filipino culture
with contemporary entertainment trends. Experience the nightlife you've been looking for at #43
Magsaysay Drive, East Tapinac, Olongapo, Philippines, 2200, according to Jaubrey Yuann Parcon and
Carl Christian Alumpi.

5. Boardwalk & Volunteers Park (Articles of Inang Laya & Children of the Sun Returning)

BOARDWALK, wherein you will be able to capture the beautiful golden sunset while being swayed by the
whispering winds from coconut trees. It is a wonderful location to escape the busy business metropolis
and find solitude. Its beachfront is also a great place for a picnic with your loved ones or a peaceful stroll
along the pavement.

Inang Laya was constructed in the early 1990s in the waterfront area. The engraved bronze markers of
"The hands that freed the nation" in front of the Inang Laya include the handprints of the 12 senators
known as "The Magnificent 12,” together with their respective votes.

Children of the Sun Returning is one of the historical landmarks in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, also known
as the Subic Volunteers Monument. This landmark pays tribute to the thousands of men and women
who prevented looting from occurring within the premises of the former Subic Naval Base during the
American evacuation of their families in the wake of the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo, according
to Maxene L. Viray.

6. Jeepney Color Codes

Experience the epitome of summer style inspired by modern tribe outifts as Phoebe and Maxene strike a
pose on a bustling public street amidst scorching temperatures. The harsh afternoon sun’s rays added a
dazzling melancholy to the distinctly contrasting image, which the scarves incorporated into midriff-
baring tops only enhanced. Be inspired by timeless masterpieces, worn once but immortalized in time.
Flitting like a butterfly into the momentary foray, fighting against the tick of the clock: the legend of the
jeepney with a taste of Olongapo's streets.

Here in Olongapo City, these unique Philippine Jeepneys are much better known for their characteristics
and obvious color-coded system, which not only livens up the city's streets but also helps the local
government highly organize public transportation. To enhance peace and order in the city, specifically to
control traffic and lower crime, this color-coding system was implemented in the 1980s. It is now
simpler for both locals and tourists to navigate the city without getting lost because each color denotes
a distinct path.

Additionally, these are their colors and matching routes:

Yellow: Sta. Rita/Pepsi to the Main Gate of Subic.

Red: from Gordon Heights to the Main Gate of Subic.

Blue: Barangay Barretto and Subic to the city center.

Green: the public market in Barangay Mabayuhan.

Orange: Barangay Gordon Heights to Pag-Asa.

Cream: Gordon Heights to Barangay West Bajac-Bajac near Rizal Triangle Park.

This system was the first of its kind in the Philippines and has been replicated in other parts of the
country due to its effectiveness for commuters. Those colors not only help in route identification but
also symbolize various areas and aspects of Olongapo City. For instance, blue represents the coastal
areas, brown symbolizes the mountains, and green signifies commerce and the fresh produce of the
marketplaces.

These jeepneys are more than just a means of transportation; they are highly considered to be one of
the most iconic features of Olongapo City itself. Generally, these vehicles greatly represent the city's
long traditions and the diverse environment and mixed culture that Olongapo has, as well as its planned
approach to urban development. It has also been said that this approach contributes to peacekeeping
and reduces traffic congestion. (Maxene L. Viray and Jaubrey Yuann Parcon.)

7. Childhood (Jolina Magdangal Concept)

Step back into the nostalgia with Donna and Jasmin as they portray the trendy kikay Filipino's 90s looks.
Inspired by Jolina Magdangal, the models wore colorful fashion styles. Filipino kids surely knew how to
have fun, just by playing outside like Chinese garter, langit lupa, and sneakily playing with your mother's
makeup secretly with your playmate. It’s always fun to reminisce about the good old days. Drinking soda
from an ice cube is a must for a sunny afternoon game break. If you would like to take a sweet nostalgia
trip, look at these photos. Let’s take a trip back to memory lane and recall what we used to do in the
90s, says Maxene L. Viray.

8. Driftwood Beach

A beautiful stretch of golden sand, Driftwood Beach is a peaceful retreat, tucked away in the quiet town
of Olongapo, Philippines. The beach stretches invitingly with its fine, tan sands that beckon beachgoers
from far and wide. Despite its beauty, the beach offers a relatively tranquil retreat with a variety of
activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and casual strolls along the shoreline.

This image is inspired by the Pearl of the Orient Seas. The Philippines has an extensive and rich history of
pearl diving, natural beauty, and pearl cultivation. Indigenous peoples in the Philippines have been pearl
diving in the nation's coastal waters for millennia.

Donna represents an indigenous lady carrying tons of round tupperware in the middle of tropical
weather at Driftwood Beach, located in Baretto (Maxene L. Viray)
9. Holy Grounds

Holy Grounds Cafe not only offers a sanctuary as soothing as the morning psalms but also presents itself
as a tranquil oasis nestled just a short stroll from the seafront. With its unique biblical theme, this cafe
stands as a haven where spirituality meets culinary artistry, embodying a peaceful retreat with soft
lighting, comfortable seating, and soft instrumental hymns complementing the contemplative
atmosphere. Patrons are welcomed not just for nourishment but for a moment of peace, inspired by the
verses and religious iconography that adorn the walls. Each table at Holy Grounds invites guests to
pause and reflect with a small candle and a quote from scripture, enhancing the serene vibe.

The cafe is known for its divine aroma of freshly ground coffee and a rich flavor profile that brings a
shared sense of solace whispering through the air. The menu at Holy Grounds is a testament to
creativity and faith, blending the sacred with the delightful. It offers savory pastas and sweet, innovative
coffee concoctions, with specialties like the richly seasoned "Good Shepherd" main courses and crisp
"Garden of Eden" salads that cater to both spiritual and physical nourishment. The beverage selection at
Holy Grounds spans from "He-Brews" artisanal coffees and exotic teas dubbed "Spiritualitea" to the
creamy, coffee-free "Blessed frappes" and vibrant "Coffee & Grace" coffee-based frappes. Iced options
include "Overflow" beverages and flavor-packed "Slushes." Particularly popular are the iced mocha
frappes, known for their robust flavor that pairs perfectly with a leisurely stroll along the nearby
seafront after a visit.

The cafe's morning offerings are also noteworthy, with delicious breakfast meals available such as the
King Solomon Meal, which comes with a free coffee that is pleasantly mild, though many opt to order an
additional coffee from the menu for a stronger kick. This quaint coffee shop in SBMA, just a walking
distance from the pier, offers a wide variety of foods, from pastries to Filipino and American breakfasts
and pastas, making it a must-visit, especially after a morning jog around the Subic Pier.

The atmosphere is consistently praised for being great, the coffee delicious, and the prices reasonable.
The service at Holy Grounds is as warm and welcoming as the ambiance. Although there may be a wait
for orders, the quality of the food and the cozy, family-friendly environment make it worthwhile. The
cafe has become a favorite spot for local community members, particularly in the evenings, creating a
magnetic pull that beckons guests to return. Whether it's enjoying a Cookies and Cream Frappe, which is
a hit among the younger patrons, or savoring a self-serve-style lunch like that of Starbucks, visitors leave
Holy Grounds Cafe feeling uplifted and satisfied.

The dedication of the staff and management to maintain a space that not only serves food but also
fosters community and spirituality truly sets Holy Grounds apart as more than just a cafe but a vital part
of the local cultural landscape. For those looking for a soothing and unique experience in SBMA, Holy
Grounds Café is the place to seek solace and enjoy a cup of coffee and an enjoyable meal! -Jaubrey
Yuann Parcon.
10. St. Columban Church

Located at 1 First Street, New Asinan, right in the center of Olongapo City, the Diocesan Shrine and
Parish of St. Columban is a shining example of both religion and community service. This dynamic parish,
committed to joyful service and advocacy for the underprivileged, is a living testimony to the gospel,
with a vision firmly anchored in a devotion to the Word of God and the Sacraments. This commitment is
demonstrated by the daily Masses, which feed the community's souls and strengthen its bonds of faith.
This dedication is manifested in the daily Masses that provide spiritual nourishment to the community,
fostering a strong sense of unity and faith.

The parish is important not just as a place of spiritual retreat but also as the epicenter of Columban
College, combining academic excellence with spiritual development. His special interaction helps pupils
grow morally and ethically, enabling them to become kind leaders who can adapt to changing social
requirements. The parish's patron saint, St. Columban, was an Irish missionary who lived in the sixth
century. St. Columban, who is well-known for his commitment to the spread of Christianity in Catholic
history, lived a life characterized by a devotion to the gospel and a strong defense of the truth. His
writings and teachings, which were profound theological understandings, placed importance on the
pursuit of justice, repentance, and prayer.

The parish is inspired by St. Columban's doctrine and uses his life as a model for evangelization and
imparting moral principles in the modern world. The parish actively lives out the teachings of Christ by
means of a variety of outreach activities, educational projects, and community services. A fundamental
aspect of the parish's character, this dedication to embody the gospel resonates strongly with everyone
who enters.

The Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Columban invites everyone to join it in its journey of faith, service,
and community leadership as it grows and serves as a pillar of hope and faith in Olongapo City.

The parish embodies the spirit of its patron saint in every deed and activity, and its unshakable devotion
to its goal guarantees that it continues to play an important role in the community's spiritual and social
fabric. This vibrant parish is a pillar of Olongapo City's spiritual life, offering a venue for both community
and personal growth in addition to being a place of prayer. Every day, its doors are open to anybody
looking for comfort, a sense of belonging, and a closer relationship with God. The Diocesan Shrine and
Parish of St. Columban faithfully fulfills its objective of sharing the gospel and providing joyful, loving
service to others via its unwavering commitment to service and dedication. (Jaubrey Yuann Parcon)

11. San Lorenzo Church (The Diocesan Shrine of St. Mary Magdalene)

The Parish of San Lorenzo Ruiz, located in the lively communities of Pag-Asa and New Kalalake in
Olongapo City, Zambales, serves as a beacon of faith and devotion for the Diocese of Iba. This Roman
Catholic Church is an important part of the community's spiritual life, and it is strongly anchored in the
region's religious past. One of the shrine's most anticipated events is the annual visit of its venerated
patron saint, Santa Maria Magdalena. Starting Monday, her renowned picture will decorate homes
along Bonifacio Street in Barangay Hope, beginning a journey that lasts from May to July each year,
delivering blessings and instilling a strong sense of community spirit.

The shrine is known for honoring two patron saints, St. Mary Magdalene and St. Lorenzo Ruiz. St. Mary
Magdalene is a significant person in Christian theology who is renowned for having provided evidence of
the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many Christians might be inspired by her story of redemption from a life
of sin to becoming one of Christ's closest disciples. The cathedral honors Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, the first
Filipino saint, who was martyred in the 17th century, in addition to Saint Mary Magdalene. Saint Lorenzo
Ruiz is a Filipino saint who was a powerful emblem of unshakable faith and perseverance because of his
amazing story of religion, his refusal to compromise his beliefs in the face of extreme persecution, and
his ultimate sacrifice. The significance of these saints in contemporary religion is profound.

They are not only remembered as historical figures but also revered as modern-day exemplars of faith
who demonstrate perseverance and unwavering commitment in the face of great challenges. St. Mary
Magdalene’s journey from redemption to sainthood offers hope and inspiration to those seeking
forgiveness and a new path in life, while Saint Lorenzo Ruiz embodies the virtues of courage and
unwavering loyalty to one’s faith. These saints have a great deal of significance in modern religion. Not
only are they respected as historical heroes, but they are also seen as living examples of religion that
show steadfastness and unflinching dedication in the face of overwhelming adversity.

In the same way that Saint Lorenzo Ruiz personifies the qualities of bravery and unyielding devotion to
one's religion, St. Mary Magdalene's journey from redemption to sainthood gives hope and
encouragement to those seeking pardon and a new route in life. The shrine actively promotes these
saints' heritage via several religious events, such as the yearly pilgrimage trip featuring the figure of
Santa Maria Magdalena. The community's ties to their faith are strengthened by this event, which also
improves the spiritual lives of the participants. In addition, the shrine plans celebrations, liturgical
services, and educational initiatives centered around the lives and virtues of these saints, with the goal
of bringing their tales to the attention of modern believers (Jaubrey Yuann Parcon)

12. Working Students/ Busy life of the city

Have you ever experienced walking into the busy streets of Olongapo?

Here's Markeisha and Johan as they portray working students who have celebrated Christmas. They play
a crucial role in society as they balance their efforts both at work and at school. The image screams
enthusiasm, as they can already experience the long vacation. Johan has won the lottery as she carries a
box of an electric fan.

13. Spanish Gate

Experience the vibrant Filipino culture as Jasmin, Anton, and Alexia wore a style as modern Filipiñiana.
The Spanish gate was constructed in 1885 after King Alfonso XII of Spain made a royal proclamation
designating Subic Bay as a naval port in 1884. This was confirmed by the Spanish Navy.

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines designated the Spanish Gate as a historical
landmark (NHCP). Adorned with gold accessories cleverly fashioned into Filipiñiana tops, the
juxtaposition of modern fashion against the classic backdrop offers a compelling visual narrative.
Embrace the fusion of old and new and be inspired by the timeless elegance and innovation showcased
in this stunning display of fashion in the middle of the city.