Issue 1_The Builder E-Newspaper

Page 9 Valdez hosts 5th NCCC Campus journalists assured of half a decade support and assistance Batac NHS secur es 5-year journalismpartnershipwithMMSU By Lovelyn Valdez To maintain its aim of continuous academic devel- A video advertisement of the opment for its learners, Batac former and present campus National High School secured journalists shared in THE a 5-year journalism partner- BUILDERS Facebook page is ship with Mariano Marcos a call for contributors who will State University, College of be trained to craft the school’s Arts and Sciences, Depart- first E-Newspaper. ment of Languages and Lit- erature to hone the journal- istic skills and talents of the school’s aspiring and budding campus journalists through the University’s conduct of the Virtual Intensive Training- Workshop on Journalistic and Reportage, November 17-18. The said partnership is adja- cent to the objectives of BNHS’ latest innovation, The Builders E-newspa- per and Media, which is to produce the first ever electronic campus news- paper in the Schools Division of the City of Batac. “The E-newspaper innovation asked for assistance from MMSU as journalists’ skills on citizen journalism Members of the Facebook also aims to inform learners, parents regard with its E-newspaper and Me- and digital tools to be able for them page are the BNHS school paper ad- and community on the latest happen- dia through its technical working team to apply such skills in developing and visers and campus journalists and ings and achievements of the school. It members, Mr. Jerville Jake Cabansag maintain an information platform. The while admins are the professors and is a good platform because it is paper- and Mr. Berlin Jay Zion Palacay. It is journalism assistance will also enable journalism trainers of MMSU. less and could be shared online and very timely because we do not have the senior campus journalists to train “It is my first time to be in a jour- offline via cellphone sharing apps. Our yet the first possible recipient of our their younger peers in journalism,” Tor- nalism activity and it is a life-changing principal, Ms. Ditas G. Domingo has project and BNHS has been a long- ribio added. experience. The said intensive training been eager to still continue the learn- time partner-recipient school of other The general objective of the and seminar were made exclusive for ing of our students but we do not have projects and community extensions, Project COMMunity is for the BNHS us, the BNHS learners who are will- a sturdy support system when it comes and they are cooperative so we im- campus paper writers, reporters, and ing to use their plume as a platform to to journalism. Good thing that MMSU mediately said yes to their request,” advisers of BNHS to develop and voice out our opinions and tell stories has just visualized one of its commu- said John Vincent Torribio, professor maintain their information platforms by to the community. I just hope that this nity extension projects dubbed as the and one of the lead persons behind the December 2026. will not only last for half a decade but Project COMMunity, and we are for- Project COMMunity during his discus- The proponents of the commu- will stay until there are learners who tunate to be their first recipient,” said sion of the Project Rationale on the nity extension also established a joint need assistance especially in the en- Whellalyn G. Duldulao, lead innovator Opening Program and Online Lecture Facebook Group with the same project hancement both of their speaking and and journalism coordinator. on Citizen Journalism on November 5, title as an online monitoring platform writing skills,” underscored by Lovenia “Actually, we were already 2021. for the campus journalists to monitor Tapon, one of the campus journalists into the finalization of the university’s “Part of the 5-year work plan the submitted outputs of the budding trained under the Project COMMunity. new Project COMMunity when BNHS of the project is to develop the campus campus journalists. Domingo hailed as one of the Outstanding School Heads in DepEd Region 1 Inside news By Princess Labrador Page 2 Batac National High School’s ments. School Principal IV, Ditas G. Domin- “I do not own this award. This Domingo go was hailed as one of the outstand- is owned by our beloved Batac Nation- received a ing school heads in the region in the al High School, by the teachers and certifate and results of the 2021 Regional Search fellow administrative staff whose ef- for Outstanding DepEd Personnel, forts are incomparable. I did not expect September 20. to be one of the awardees, because it is already an honor to be nominat- Domingo is one of the ten ed by the screening committee of the Schools Division of the City of Batac”, school heads who hurdled the Program Domingo said to her constituents after the awarding. on Awards and Incentives for Service The school’s administrative staff is also hoping that there will also Excellence (PRAISE) screening of the be teacher nominees from the school for the said award. Department of Education in Region 1. The said award is given to DepEd em- ployees with exemplary performance, commitment to public service and significant and impactful accomplish- plaque of recognition rewarding her efforts landing a spot in the Regional PRAISE Page 8 FEATURE STORIES Page 7 2020.

With its aim to intensify strong- The 3-month Pagbasa Drive Batac NHS PAGBASA DRIVE intensifies er literacy not only to its students but has been facilitated online and face- stronger literacy among K-12 learners to learners from kindergarten to sen- to-face following the health and safety ior high, Batac National High School protocol of the IATF. Among the limited By Kenneth Castillo administration headed by its princi- face-to-face activities accomplished pal, Ms. Ditas G. Domingo mobilized were reading remediation, interven- Mrs. Yoradyl Patoc, English reading coordinator leads the limited face-to-face reading the school’s Language Department to tion, tutorial sessions, lecture on prop- program from kindergarten to senior high school. organize and facilitate the PAGBASA er pronunciation and enunciation of DRIVE from September to November. words in English, Balarila in Filipino, The Pagbasa Drive is not only and Spelling Bee. While online activi- a platform to support the Brigada Pag- ties include Reader’s Theater with the basa, a flagship program of the Briga- learners’ family members, Oratorical da Eskwela 2021 in September, but Contest, and the weekly Read-a-thon. also to celebrate the National Read- The school assured the par- ing Month last November. With the ents and students that the Pagbasa schools reading program tagged as Drive will not stop in providing assis- PRInt (Project Reading Interventions), tance as long as there are learners it continues to support the goal of the who need support and enhancement Schools Division of the City of Batac to in reading and literacy. With the Pro- enhance the reading skills of the learn- ject Reading Interventions, the school ers, and help those who need further administration and language teachers assistance in developing their literacy anticipate a stronger partnership with and have access to the school’s in- the community and other stakeholders stalled reading centers, learning nook to ensure meaningful learning through and 911 libraries. reading. Batac NHS hauls Division awards on its implementation of Brigada Eskwela 2021 By Keneth Castillo BNHS admin staff Ms. Janina Grace Morota, attended the Division Virtual Appreciation and Brigada To prove its title as one of the The school focused on its Eskwela Awarding Ceremony dubbed as PAMMIGBIG and received 4 Plaques of Recognition for a preparations and partnership initiatives commendable and outstanding Brigada Eskwela implementation of Batac National High School. best Brigada Eskwela implementers in that complement the Basic Education- the region, Batac National High School Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP). strengthened its partnership with the The school’s effort ensured that quality community, private and government basic education will continue despite institutions, and other stakeholders in the challenges of the CoVid19 pan- the community to realize the slogan: demic. Bayanihan para sa Paaralan, haul- “I always make it a point that I ing four major awards from the Divi- don’t own an award whenever I receive sion Virtual Appreciation Program and it. I don’t own these awards, I owe Brigada Eskwela Awarding Ceremony, them, the school owe them to the crea- January 14. tive minds and tireless hands of the Aside from winning the Best dedicated teaching and non-teaching Brigada Implementer, large school cat- staff of Batac National High School. egory, the school also bagged three We are also indebted to school’s ben- major awards: Best School-Home efactors, stakeholders, donors, partner Community Partnership, Best Partner- agencies, and the community who did ship Learning Activity, and Most Pre- not falter in sustaining our needs to up- pared School. The awards paid-off the hold the academic needs of our learn- efforts of the principal teachers and co- ordinators who collaborated with their ers,” BNHS Principal, Ms. Ditas G. Do- long-time partner agencies and ben- efactors. mingo, underscored in her acceptance speech during the virtual awarding.” SBM levels up for Batac NHS Best ImplementerAward By Joshua Pacli With the exemplary perfor- tion, Accountability and Continuous mance and incomparable commit- Improvement, Management of Re- ment of the school’s teaching and sources. support staff including its supportive The school-based manage- stakeholders, Batac NHS was award- ment is a strategy to improve edu- ed by the Schools Division of the City cation by transferring significant de- of Batac as one of the best imple- cision-making authority to individual menters of School-Based Manage- schools. SBM provides principals, ment, level 3, December 9. school heads, teachers, students, The award received pushed and parents a greater control over the school administration to elevate the education process by giving them its performance next school year responsibility for decisions about the with its personnel and stakeholders’ budget, personnel, and the curricu- commitment to ensure quality school- lum. based management. The onsite vali- With the involvement of teach- dation gave an equally high ratings on ers, parents, and other community the four dimensions of Batac National stakeholders in these key decisions, High School’s SBM in Leadership and SBM can create more effective learn- A Plaque and Certificate of Recognition were received by BNHS Principal, Ms. Ditas G. Domingo and Adopt- a-School Program coordinator, Mr. Berlin Jay Zion T. Palacay as awards to the school’s level-up performance. Governance, Curriculum and Instruc- ing environments for children.

Batac NHS initiates mobile laboratory for TLE learners By Lovelyn Valdez Among the Home Technology practicum offered by the mobile laboratory is baking, In support of the initiative students, so there is a need to expose letting the students make their own pastries using the schools baking equipment. of the Schools Division of the City of them to a variety of experiences which Batac of providing quality education are meaningful and relevant to their amid the pandemic, Batac National development. High School’s Technology and Liveli- Learners are notified through hood Education teachers brought mo- the 911 Klasrum group chat on the bile laboratories to its Learning Nook schedule of their practicum through the and 911 Libraries. mobile laboratory. Following the health One of the challenges of the and safety protocol of the IATF, teach- pandemic is the absence of the face- ers sanitize first the venue before pre- to-face learning causing real-life ex- paring the materials and equipment. periences in learning to stop. This Learners are given time to watch an has been one of the reasons why the instructional video prior to their hands- school administration, spearheaded on learning. by its principal, Ms. Ditas G. Domingo, The laboratory’s first session mobilized its TLE teachers to organize started on December 2, with lessons the implementation of the mobile labo- and practicum in Food Technology and ratory. ICT. The next session of the mobile Since Batac National High laboratory is yet to be organized and School is the center of TecVoc educa- set by the TLE department. Learners tion in the SDCB with its Senior High and parents anticipate more worthwhile School technical vocational livelihood learning in the subject. TLE teachers offerings, it wants to address the dif- of BNHS hope for the success of this ficulties of its learners in TLE. The initiative since it is the first-ever mobile subject aims to reinforce the work skill laboratory in the division. training and value orientation of the E-Nay and E-Tay Livelihood Training Program supports financial recovery By Princess Labrador To support the financial re- home were the focus of the Entrepre- covery of families in adjacent com- neur Tatay (E-tay) such as extension, munities, Batac National High School decorative pots, and improvise griller organized and implemented the En- making. Trainers in the E-tay were trepreneur Nanay (E-Nay) and Tatay Mr. Mario Manligot, Mr. Sonny Fiesta (E-Tay), May 12-13 and November and Engr. Froilan Matutino, also TLE 27. teachers. The said livelihood program “It is a good start for us to aims to help the parents by training recover from the financial difficul- them with the skills needed for the ties brought by CoViD19. Some of different small-scale livelihood busi- us were removed from our jobs and nesses. It is also a part of the Gen- we were really in need of something der and Development Program of the to start with. We are grateful for this school since teachers and support opportunity that the school has given staff also participated in the trainings. to us. They provided everything in the Entrepreneur Nanay (E-nay) livelihood training and it means a lot provided trainings in food businesses to our family,” said Filomena Caluya, for 100 partcipants which consists of one of the participants of the E-nay. 80 mothers and 20 selected teaching Batac National High School’s and non-teaching staff. There partici- principal, Ms. Ditas Domingo also pated in the embutido, gipang, Batac wants to extend the livelihood train- empanada, dumplings, and nachos ing in some barangays of the City of making with the training and assis- Batac as a part of the school’s com- tance of the Food Technology teach- munity extension program. This will ers, Mr. Marlon Lumang, Mrs. Madel also extend the reach of the school in P. Tagata, Mrs. Charie Agustin. Skills lending a hand to the people who are E-tay participants, assisted by BNHS teachers, mold decorative pots as a part of their training in the Livelihood Program. in assembling electronic devices at affected by the pandemic. BNHS, Palacay bag awards in the 2021 CID RIMAT By Lovenia Tapon With its great number of in- on Management of Teaching (CID RI- which exerted by schools, school vice,” Palacay underscored. novations and projects since 2020, MAT) 2021, December 17. heads and teachers in managing the More projects are set to be re- Batac National High School bags the The award serves as a form of delivery of instruction from October alized and implemented in the school 1st place for best implementer, Ms. Di- commendation for teachers, schools 2020 to September 2021. in support of the teaching and learn- tas G. Domingo and 2nd place for Best and school heads who are innovative, “Receiving the award paid-off ing process. Innovator, teacher category, Mr. Berlin deserving and has responsive initia- my efforts as an educator to help our The BNHS teaching force is Jay Zion Palacay, in the recently con- tives on management of teaching. learners. The award may encourage also expecting to bag another award cluded Commendation for Innovative, It is also a form of apprecia- more teachers to be creative, innova- on the next set of awardees for the Deserving, And Responsive Initiatives tion of the initiatives and innovations tive and productive in their public ser- next school year.

Unity amidst diversity highlighted in the BNHS celebration of UNO 2021 By Lovenia Tapon To strengthen unity amidst di- nevine P. Quinajon and Ms. Panama, The showcasing of colorful and stunning National Costumes of the different countries did not only versity, Batac National High School’s Kassandra Chloe G. Macayanan of presented the unique cultures and traditions, but higlighted the United Nations Organizations aim to Social Reformist Club and Social Stud- Grade 7 Dahlia while 2nd runners-up promote unity amidst diversity. ies teacher organized activities com- were Mr. and Ms. Mexico, mark Chris- memorating the United Nations Or- tian Caluya and Shantelle Turingan, “We wanted to celebrate the UNO involving the learners without putting ganization purpose of establishment from 8-Iris. Also, 3rd runners-up were Month in a way that we focus on the their safety at stake has been done to highlighting the celebration through the Mr. Fiji, Kenneth Castillo of 10-Sun- theme: Recovering better for an equi- make the virtual program a celebration Search for Mr. and Ms. UNO 2021, Oc- flower and Ms. Kenya, Angel Mei Ig- table and sustainable world, and we worth remembering,” Mr. Eric Asun- tober 23. arta of 9-Orchid while 4th runners-up highlighted unity amidst diversity which cion, Social Science subject coordina- Among the activities were the were Mr. and Ms. Angola Cris Julian D. aimed to make a better place for every- tor and Social Reformist club adviser online United Nations Quiz Bee via Matutino and Ma. Cristina Mae A. Man- one around world. Batac National High highlighted in his message during the google meet, hanging of UNO mem- gurit of Grade 10 Waling-waling. School give high regards to the theme BNHS Virtual Culminating Program of bers flags in the conspicuous areas First place for the UN Quizbee especially in this time of pandemic, and the UNO 2021. of the school, and music video mak- was Chazzea Lance Galacgac of 10 ing contest which were participated by Sunflower while second and third place the BNHS learners both from the junior were Rean Zhaina Benigno of 10 Wal- and senior high school. ing-Waling and Nairond Ezekeil Lag- The highlight of the celebration may of 8 Gladiola. The Grade 8 bagged is the search for Mr. and Ms. Uno 2021 the first place for the UNO Music Video which showcased not only the beauti- Contest while Grade 10 and Grade 8 ful costumes of the different UN coun- landed on the second and third spot re- tries but also presented their unique spectively. Flag identification was ruled cultures and traditions. Mr. USA, Jo- by Jessica Anday 11-Charity, first place effen Anthony Daquep and Ms. USA, while Cheska Jossaine Bagoisan of 9 Donnabel Bulong, both from Grade 12 Orchid and Jamaica Nezzylee Langdet Hope were crowned Mr. and Ms. UNO. of 10-Waling-Waling got the second First runners-up were Mr. Panama, De- and third place. TaTaK BNHS program conceptualized for Barkada Kontra Droga movement By Rhean Benigno Part of the TaTak BNHS’ Barkada Kontra Droga is involving the learners in the distribution of flyers To create a drug-free environ- Kikilos BNHS program will serve as a to parents and people in the community to strengthen the program’s campaign against illegal drugs. ment at home, school, workplace and venue to Integrate the BKD concept community and to promote youth em- into the activities of the NDEP of the powerment in leading a healthy life- Department of Education. Its aim is to style that is drug-free and productive, provide support services towards the Batac National High School’s TaTak adoption of Barkada concept among BNHS program was conceptualized families, educators, professionals, for the full school-based implementa- work forces, peer groups, and oth- tion of Barkada Kontra Droga move- er sectors”, Mrs. Catherine Alonzo, ment. NDEP coordinator emphasized about The said program was organ- the TaTak BNHS program. ized in line with the guidelines of the Aside from the continuous Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) oth- distribution of flyers and other IEC erwise known as the Comprehensive campaign materials against drugs, a Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, the video campaign in support of the 2021 flagship program of the Board named Drug Abuse Prevention and Control as BARKADA KONTRA DROGA (DAPC) Week has been uploaded in (BKD) which was institutionalized for the official facebook page od BNHS to implementation. promote the flagship program of the “TaTaK stands for Tayo, Tatayo, Barkada Kontra Droga of Batac NHS. Excellent services of employees Bersamin lands on 3rd spot in the 32nd awarded in SOBRESALIENTE 2021 Provincial NSM Spoken Word Poetry contest By Savannah Adina By Thrixie Dul-loog To encourage the practice of Ms. Jenna Mae M. Pungtilan and Mr. Charlz Vincent Bersamin, of Pungtilan, coach with the assistance excellence and outstanding services Jerville Jake M. Cabansag. Mr. Ken- the Grade 9 landed on the 3rd spot of Mrs. Evangeline Borje, Mathemat- from its teaching and support staff, neth Irving Alexander T. Diric received in the Spoken Word Poetry Con- ics coordinator. Batac NHS started its first school- the POWER EDITOR award and the test of the 32nd National Statistics “It was my first time based SOBRESALIENTE AWARD, NOTABLE PARTNER award was giv- Month, provincial level, October 3 joining such competition and I did November 8. en to Ms. Nida Q. Calacal. Batac National High School not expect to be one of the winners. Teachers and support staff The Spanish word SOBRE- was chosen by the Schools Division Despite the prevailing pandemic, members with significant contribu- SALIENTE, which is closely trans- of the City of Batac to be the repre- we were able to produce a video re- tions and performance for the school lated to the English word outstanding, sentative in the spoken word poetry cording of my performance and I am which led to the learners’ academic is the name given to the said award. contest inculcating the theme: NSM grateful because it is the school’s improvement and achievements were This is also to uplift the spirit of the at 32: Revving up for Economic and principal, Ms. Ditas G. Domingo who acknowledged. Batac NHS teachers who are per- Social Recovery Through Evidence- even lend her office as the venue Awardees for INNOVATIVE forming beyond the call of their du- Based Policies. of our video recording. My coach, TEACHERS were Mr. Berlin Jay Zion ties to ensure quality learning for the The contest was participated Ma’am Jenna and Ma’am Vangee, T. Palacay, Ms. Whellalyn G. Duldu- students who are the center of educa- by learners of secondary schools the school’s Mathematics coordina- lao and Mrs. Catherine M. Alonzo. tion. in the province of Ilocos Norte and tor also were very optimistic during The WONDER LEADER was award- The award is given every first Bersamin hailed as one of the poem the recording. I owe my wining to ed to Mr. Eric best performers of the said contest them,” Bersamin said after the an- D. Asuncion, Monday of each month to under the training of Ms. Jenna Mae nouncement of winners. employees who showed ex-

EDITORIAL Armed with Academic Backup Issues on the academ- were addressed through Gadget Pampagkatuto Mula sa Puso. ic continuity occurred when the While those students who have problems on references to answer their modules, the 911 Library has pandemic strike our country and been realized to reach out to those financially incapable families who cannot sustain the needs for mobile the Department of Education ad- data. The said innovation has united schools, universities and even government and private entities to come dressed through issuing distance together and donate books to assist the needs of the Batac National High School learners. learning modes, while also apply- To be one with the digital world, innovations that could be easily accessed online for faster transactions ing blended learning programs. and could cater to the needs both of the personnel and students, two digital-based innovations were estab- These include online classes, mod- lished by two members of the school’s Language Department. These are the BNHS School-Based Infosystem ules, and lessons via TV and social and the Builders E-Newspaper, both of which are the first ever school-based online innovations in the SDCB. media platforms. Despite the fact The school has been commended for these Academic Backups and there have been other projects that students and teachers prefer which are set to be launched and implemented to improve the quality of education and produce a more sys- face-to-face classes, they have to tematic and faster support system to the learners. adapt to distance learning. With the shift of the learn- ing modality from face-to-face to distance learning, Batac National High School is fast in looking for ways to help its learners to face the challenges. Problems were experi- enced during the first year of imple- mentation of the modular learning in the Schools Division of the City of Batac, but these difficulties be- came the catalyst of the school to find ways to assist the students and stretch its reach even to those who are situated in the far-flung areas. The minds of the teachers worked, with a little push from their school head and encouragement from their respective division, a lot of projects and innovations were crafted. The problems on the lack of gadget to accomplish some re- quirements in the modular learning HONESTY: The Complete Virtue Giving life to Death Penalty By Joshua Pacli By Charlemagne Juan Taken from the Book of 2 Kings As the famous proverb says, ey? Like any profession, dishonest At a key juncture in Philippine it is no longer sustainable in today’s “Honesty is the best policy”. Such is building superintendents given the world. Daily killings, a rape of jus- simply comprehended as “the truth honest superintendents a bad name. history, when the country is poised to tice, and unequal standards between is better than lying even when it is Some pocket the money. Others use elect a new leader, the issue of capi- those in power and those who don’t hard to do”. In this time of pandemic, the honest to pay old debts. Still oth- tal punishment has resurfaced for - these have all become the norm. As we all need money to live, but not to ers mismanage the funds trying to heated debate. Despite its abolition what I perceived, justice is for the rich the extent that some tend to lie and keep several projects going at once. in the Philippines in 2006, it remains and have power, and truth is for the scam people out of their money and But how did the Joash’s building su- a source of contention: when a par- oppressed. possessions. perintendents handle the money? ticularly heinous murder occurs, loud Imagine a Philippines that has An interesting story occurs in Look at verse fifteen: “No account- cries are heard about the ostensible advanced in every manner – scien- 2 Kings 12. Joash was King of Ju- ing was required from the men who necessity of its reinstatement in order tifically, economically, and socially – dah. He noticed that the temple was received the money to pay those do- to “do justice” not only to the victim but where everyone has the best quality of in need of repair. The mortar was ing the work, since they worked with also to the bereaved and the shocked life possible, as in the meme “Pilipinas falling out between the bricks. The integrity” (2 Kings 12:15). The NIV society at large. kung hindi itinapon ni Isagani ang lam- walls were crumbling. Water damage states, “they acted with complete Many say that it is past time para.” The legal system would be at its was evident all around. The gold and honesty” (2 Kings 12:15 NIV). to re-swing the axe, to re-instill hor- best, giving everyone their due. In this bronze were tarnished. There were In the middle of this prevail- ror in those who violate others’ rights. context, some believe the death pen- trash and debris everywhere. So, ing pandemic, Joash’s building su- The penalty would act as a deter- alty should be revived to punish those he starts a fundraising program. He perintendents are the kind of people rence to keep them in line, as well as who have perpetrated true evil. Why places a chest at the entrance door that we want if we are ever building a a peacekeeping tool that should be do we see death as the solution when of the temple with an opening in the house, or a church. In fact, those are used whenever possible. Others, par- it is truly the last resort? Why should top so people could drop in their offer- the kind of people we want around us ticularly those in religious sectors and we promote fear in people when there ings for the temple repairs. in all of our dealings and transactions. diverse human rights organizations, are other ways to minimize criminal When the chest became full the mon- An honest money and living are from believe that the death penalty should motivations? Why kill when there are ey was given to the building superin- God. we should love one another by be abolished, never to be used again, significantly better and more humani- tendents so they could pay the car- giving everyone the worth of their because it is an affront to the constitu- tarian alternatives? There are other penters, stonemasons, quarrymen, money. Oftentimes our being selfish tional right to life and a heinous moral questions that must be addressed, timber dealers, and stone merchants, makes us dishonest. Our being dis- evil. However, there is one viewpoint which cannot be addressed just by en- and to buy the needed materials. contented make us lie. What we need that both agrees and disagrees with forcing this tough rule. What do you think these build- in these trying times are honest peo- me and gives me the creeps: the ing superintendents did with the mon- ple, don’t you? country is not yet ready for the act. That the death penalty is not now in use, but may be in the future. Clearly,

Campus tweets Health break for Interviewed by our mental’s sake Lovenia Tapon Considering the latest assessment of With the current CoVid19 situation of our country, do you think the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the you are ready for the limited face-to-face classes? management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolutions, the Department of Education has “I see children in the malls, so what’s stopping us to go back to issued a memo on the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities the amidst By Lovelyn Valdez school? I more ready to learn face-to-face because modular learning is the surge of Covid19 cases. During the suspension of classes, all synchronous and asynchro- too burdening”. -Chalzey Althea Galacgac nous classes shall be put on hold while submission of academic require- ments and conduct of other teaching-related activities must be moved to “I have seen in the news how the Department of Education a later date. Late submissions of students’ requirements are also given prepared for the pilot implementation of face-to-face classes, some the chance to be accommodated especially those with valid reasons. schools have already started so what’s keeping us from resuming”? Such move of the Department of Education to ease the health -Jilwin Kirby Manarpaac burden of the pandemic while promoting the mental well-being of the personnel and learners is a good way to recharge. “The number of CoViD19 cases is like the waves of the ocean. We feel awkward talking about mental issues when in fact this We do not know when will the surge happen, so it is a no for me”. should be given the same level of concern with our physical health. An -Ronel Samusam unhealthy mind could also lead to an unhealthy body, worse is, it could lead to depression and death. Who does not need a break anyway? “The CoviD19 has mutated into different variants and some of We all do. Learners and teachers also need their “me time” and “family the learners are not yet fully-vaccinated. Might us well we wait until this time” in order for them to regain their much-needed strength to continue pandemic really comes into its end before we go back to normal way of teaching and learning distantly. learning. Health should still be our priority”. -Jamaica Langdet Vax to ride There is some vaccine hes- There are more distractions at home than in school. I tend to itancy in our country causing the feel lazier when I am at home that when I am learning in school. No By Princess Labrador government to authorize officials to one can replace the expertise of my teachers in discussing the lessons stop people in entering some es- compared to self-learning my modules. So, I am ready for the limited tablishments if they cannot show face-to-face classes. their vaccination card to prove that -Hendrik Pagtama they are fully-vaccinated. One policy which already started in Metro Manila stops A platform to be reborn commuters who are not fully vaccinated from using public transport. They By Erika Menor have to show proof of their shots before they can board trains, buses and jeeps. A few months left and the nation will again ink the ballot of fate for our This policy brought about an uproar from the masses saying that country. Looking back on the past elections, we were all hopeful, the youth is it is inhumane. While the reason is clear that it is also for the good of the hopeful. Statistics and opinions collided and we still did not know what is waiting people, there have been scenarios of workers crying because they were for our country. But one thing is for sure, the nation is always at stake on the deci- not allowed to ride for the reason that they are only partially-vaccinated sion that we make. and their schedule for their second dose is yet to be completed. We heard a number of promises: to uplift the lives of the Filipino, to end We are not in the same boat in this time of pandemic. Some have corruption, to obtain peace and order, to end poverty. These are not new to us cars, the luxury of going to their workplace without the hassle of traffic because they are evident. They are the echoing sentiments of our countrymen and authorities who checked if you already receive two does of anti-covid and we cannot just shut our eyes and cover our ears from them. The people did shots or not. While many were not given the opportunity to be fully-vac- not ask for the platforms, they were born out of the vicious reality which should cinated before the “No Vax, No Ride” policy, and a few were exempted be addressed by them, the aspiring leaders. due to their health issues, then humanity should be given the chance, and With the mainstream media and the popularity of social media, all actions policies should not be deemed discriminatory. of the aspiring leaders are being scrutinized by the gigantic lens of the camera. Their words are quotations, sometimes wisdom, more often being paraphrased, EDITOR-in-CHIEF: Lovelyn Valdez TECHNICAL SUPPORT TEAM: some explain them further for amusement. But there is more to this circus. The Filipinos deserved better and deserve more. The taxes of the working class serve ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Princess Labrador Darlo P. Reyes, Eimie Aicytel P. Ramos as the platform of these politicians, because it is Juan dela Cruz’ money that is being spent in advertisements and campaign paraphernalia during election pe- NEWS EDITORS: Lovenia Tapon & Erika Menor Kenneth Irving Alexander T. Diric riod, and the voting people should learn that they are more powerful than they think. FEATURE EDITOR: Thrixie Dul-loog Expectations? Many. We have seen how the lower class suffered from years and years of surreal promises. Will it end for the next six years? We do not SPORTS EDITOR: Chazzea Lance Galacgac CRITICS: Mariano Marcos State University know. Will it pass? Surely, if the voting population blots their ballots out of their conscience. SCIENCE& TECH EDITOR: Rhean Benigno College of Arts and Sciences, As a part of the group whose future belongs to the hands of those who will hold the pen of the future, I still believe that there are still good leaders. CARTOONISTS: Kenneth Castillo, Hendrik Pagtama, Dept. of Languages and Literature Chances are unimaginable if the older generation supports the trustworthy peo- ple not in words but in actions, and I have seen them. I can even differentiate if Clarisse Daradar, John Edison Gumpal the platform they are laying in front of us are just tarot cards, that only shows a too-good-to-be-true plans, and will later on just be a sand castle, which will even- LAY-OUT ARTISTS: Jheimar Manarpaac, Joshua Pacli & Kenneth Castillo tually be wasted and washed ashore by the waves. Through the young minds’ criticisms, a country can be reborn. This is not PHOTO JOURNALISTS: Rhonel Samusam, Jilwin Kirby Manarpaac, Ameera Bulatao, impossible, because we are the country’s freshest minds. As learners, we can call out our parents, older relatives and friends to think of us whenever they listen Mark Joenel Arnedo, Marlon Sarabia, Ywa Ortal, Ethan Gabriel to the platforms. We have read histories where Filipinos succeed after numbers of downfall. If the past Filipinos did not succumb to their oppressors, then, the Iglesia, Paulo Nico Natividad, Nairond Ezekiel Lagmay, Mark Renz voters of today should not be mesmerized by mere lies, circus, and trolls. Caluya, Carl Dominic Lopez CONSULTANT: Ditas G. Domingo EXTERNAL CONTRIBUTORS: Jheimar Manarpaac, Charlemagne Juan, Jamico Cris Jinco INTERNAL CONTRIBUTORS: Althea Galacgac,Kahrell Jane Tagala, Majane Corpuz, Savannah Adina, Cheska Jossaine Bagaoisan, Althea Quiaoit, Jeshellie Josh Ignacio, Emmanuel Galimba, Jamaica Langdet, Venice Brazen Tagala, Melodie Rodrigo, Christine Joy Gutierezz, Althea Quaoit, Jeshellie Josh Ignacio, Jolina Ortal, Kimberly Sarabia, Zyareel Tariga, John Keneth Agustin, Arianne Galacgac, Shantelle Alvine Turingan, Charlene Ablao, Katie Ysabel Remigio SCHOOL PAPER ADVISERS: Whellalyn G. Duldulao, Berlin Jay Zion T. Palacay, Yoradyl Mae Patoc, Jenna Mae M. Pungtilan, Christian B. Quidilla, Jerville Jake M. Cabansag, Janeth T. Rabanal, Janice F. Sibucao

ENGLISH The 911 Library: A Book Pantry in the Community By K.C. A lot of grievances influx all corners of mass and social media The launching and MOA signing of the three 911 in our country during the implementation of the distance learning. libraries were well-applauded and during the last day of launching, Educators cannot deny the hardship of adjusting to the sudden shift Uguis Integrated Schools from the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte of learning process, much more to the learners and parents who hold visited Batac National High School for knowledge management not just the responsibility of coping with the financial adversities journey and to seek permission for adoption and benchmarking of brought by the fast spreading pandemic. the innovation. The sentiments were crippling to the sense of hearing. The At present, the three libraries are being utilized by learners not main problem goes down to one culprit: weak or no internet connec- just from the innovations school of origin, but all those learners tion at all. The difficulty of accomplishing a week’s queue of modules from kindergarten up to senior high school from different schools and activity sheets is impossible without spending a piece of fam- who are in dire need of learning and supplementary references and ily’s budget in mobile data or internet connection. In the distance materials are welcome. learning, reference is a must and the easiest way to supplement the answers and accomplish performance and written tasks is to connect The 911 library is a conducive place for self- studying since to the internet. Yet, its weakness and unstable presence are the it is well-ventilated and I am also excited because the barangay grave concerns of learners and even teachers. In addition to this para-librarian said that Wi-Fi connection will soon be available. struggle is the time consuming effort of parents to check on the The place is also safe because there is a schedule of visitation progress of their children getting done with their academic tasks. Thus, the ingenuity of one educator has addressed these pressing for each sitio in our barangay, the rules and regulations are also issues. This gave birth to a brainchild that would ease the burden clearly posted inside the library and the assigned para-librarian of and take away worries both from the learners and parents in select the day strictly implements proper health protocol before and barangays of the Schools Division of the City of Batac. Along with after entering the library. Students are also allowed to borrow this solution, is the goal to provide supplementary materials not and bring home books that we need. just in the junior and senior high school, but also to cater to needs of the kindergarten and elementary pupils in the distant learning. Who would have thought that the well-known community pantry combined with the division-initiated 911 Klasrum group chats in messenger, gave the lead proponent, Mr. Allan B. Garcia, the Head Teacher III of Batac National High School, now the School Head of City of Batac National High School-Payao, an idea of realizing the 911 library? Like the community pantry that sup- plies the people’s need for food; the 911 li- brary was visualized to sup- plement the dis- tance learning necessi- ties of the learners. It is like a book pantry of learners’ needs for references and learning. The innovation is also aimed to instill and revive the love of books and reading to the learners. Since face-to-face learning is prohibited, the 911 libraries were organized within the safety of the community. It is accessible and free. It is also a place where community teachers can meet and assist their assigned learners. The project aimed to provide accessible reference materials for the learners through the installation of satellite libraries in se- lect barangays of the City of Batac where there is a limited access to fast and consistent internet connection. It is going back to the traditional yet reliable and free means of digging knowledge and sup- plementary information. A learner does not need to navigate around the bushes, between or on top of trees and roofs just to rummage a precious fiber of internet connection. It mobilized not just the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials but giant companies and universities in the community and locality. Among those were the Provincial Government of Ilo- cos Norte (PGIN), Magilas Distribution and Trading Corporation, Northwestern University, Northern Christian College which donated one hundred fifty thousand worth of high-quality books and refer- ence materials and Divine Word College of Laoag with a two hundred fifty thousand worth of book donations. The rush of donations is overwhelming and unimaginable. The innovation needed to train the chosen barangay officials to serve as Para-librarians for the three community libraries. The whole teaching and non-teaching force of Batac National High School selflessly gave their support and services for the realization of the libraries.

Pamana MulaFILIPINO sa Tatlumpu’t Isang Serbisyong Paglilingkod Lovenia Mae Tapon Tulad ng naninilaw at nalalagasang gilid ng mga pahina ng libro, ang pagtuturo ng isang niya kung paano umunlad ang paaralan dahil na rin sa kaniyang mga naging ambag dito. guro ay dumaraan sa maraming pagbuklat upang maibahagi ang mga kaalaman. Pagbuklat, na Ang kaniyang pananatili sa BNHS ay walang singhusay. Ngunit, hindi rin maitatanggi maaring magbigay ng mga pagsubok, at susubok sa kung gaano ang itatagal ng mga pahina sa paulit- na mayroong mga dagok na sumubok sa kaniyang katatagan bilang isang guro. Naranasan niyang ulit, at pabalik-balik na paglalakbay ng mga maliliit na kamay upang hanapin ang kasarinlan ng maging guro ng mga mag-aaral na mayroong espesyal na pangangailangan. Ipinamalas din niya ang isipan, upang mabigyang-kasagutan ang mga katanungang magbibigay daan sa kaliwanagan. kaniyang dalisay na pagmamahal sa kaniyang mga naging estudyante sapagkat naglalaan siya ng kar- Maihahantulad ang tibay ng librong tinutukoy sa serbisyo ng gurong hindi natibag sa lahat ng mga agdagang oras upang maturuan ang mga mag-aaral na nangangailangan ng karagdagang atensiyon. pagsubok ng panahon. Sa kabila ng mga samo’t saring mga hamon sa loob nga apat na sulok at labas Hindi rin siya nagpahuli bilang tagasanay ng mga manunulat at mamamahayag sapagkat nagagawa ng silid-aralan ay punong-puno pa rin siya ng galak at pananabik na makintal ang karunungan ng niyang ipanalo ang paaralan sa tulong ng mga magagaling niyang mga mag-aaral. Marami na rin sa mga mag-aaral. Walang katapusang pagsusunog ng kilay ang kaniyang pinuhu- kaniyang mga naging mag-aaral noon ang propesyonal na ngayon. nan upang matugunan ang mga uhaw na isipan. Kaya’t sa bawat pahina ng aklat Bukod sa pagiging pangalawang magulang sa mga bata, ay isa rin si- na kaniyang pinagbubulaybulayan habang nakikipagbuno sa dilim ay umaapaw Lumipas man ang kaniyang pananahan yang huwarang ina Patunay rito ang pagtatapos lahat ng mga dalaga niya ang kanyang pag-asang makapagsaboy ng mga aral na kailanman ay hindi ma- at paglilingkod sa paaralang kaniyang sa kolehiyo at sa kasalukuyan ay may kanya-kanya ng trabaho. bubura sa diwa ng kaniyang mga ginigiliw na estudyanteng hindi man siya ka- naging kanlungan, ang kaniyang mga Sa kaniyang pagreretiro nais niyang ipaalala sa mga mag-aaral na re- dugo, ay itinuring na siyang magulang. ginawa at naging ambag sa paaralan ay spetuhin ang mga guro dahil sila ang nagbibigay ng aral at mga kaalaman “Ma’am Pacing” kung siya’y magiliw na tawagin ng mga bata at ka- hindi malilimutan kailanman. sa kanila. Nais din niyang sabihin sa mga kapwa niya guro na ipagpatuloy pwa guro niya sa Mataas na Paaralan ng Batac. Si Gng. Pacita L. Bayudan ay na paunlarin at ibigay ang pangangailangan ng eskuwelahan at ng mga nagmula sa isang payak na pamilya, at siya’y nag-iisang anak ng mag-asawang magsasaka. Mula estudyante. sa isang simpleng pamumuhay ay nahubog ang isang matayog na pangarap. Pinangarap niyang Sadyang hindi matatawaran ang kaniyang serbisyo. Kakikitaan siya ng kakaibang pag- maging isang pulis, buhat sa kaniyang naging mataas na posisyon sa CAT noong siya’y nasa antas mamahal dahil inuuna muna niya ang kapakanan ng mga bata bago ang kaniyang sarili. Ang tamis sekondarya. Ngunit, ipinagkait ito ng pagkakataon sa kaniya. Dahil dito, nabuo sa kaniya ang masidh- ng tagumpay ng kaniyang mga naging mag-aaral ay siya na ring kaniyang tagumpay. ing kagustuhang maging isang guro. Lumipas man ang kaniyang pananahan at paglilingkod sa paaralang kaniyang naging kan- “Ang pagtuturo ay ang serbisyong sisimulan mo sa pagkabata hanggang sa pagtanda”, lungan, ang kaniyang mga ginawa at naging ambag sa paaralan ay hindi malilimutan kailanman. At palagi niyang sinasambit sa mga mag-aaral na humihingi sa kanya ng payo kung paanong maging katulad ng librong napupudpod ang pahina ngunit hindi nabubura ang mga salitang nagsisiwalat ng isang huwarang guro. Patunay rito ang kaniyang naging makabuluhang tatlumpu’t isang paglilingkod kaalaman, ang Ma’am Pacing ng Bungon ay mananatiling guro sa puso ng mga mag-aaral at kan- nang buong katapatan at dedikasyon sa Batac National High School. Naging saksi ang mga pader ng yang mga nakatrabaho. Ang tintang nakapagkit sa mga papel ay maaaring lumabo, pero kailanman mga silid-aralan at iba pang mga gusali ng paaralan sa tagumpay ng kaniyang paninilbihan, bilang ay hindi maglalaho ang mga naituro ng isang Ma’am Pacing sa kamalayan ng bawat mag-aaral at tagahubog ng mga musmos na isipan. Sa tagal ng kaniyang serbisyo mula 1985-2021, ay nasaksihan mga bagong guro. Determinasyong Pinanday ng Kahapon J.M.P Sabi nga nila, walang mahirap sa taong nangangarap. Nagsisil- ing dulot nito lalo pa’t binago ng pandemya ang ilang aspekto sa larangan bing sandata ang pangarap upang mas maging malakas at matapang ang ng edukasyon. Muli na naman siyang pinanghinaan ng loob sapagkat bawat isa sa pagharap sa anomang hamong ibabato ng buhay. ang dating nakagisnan niya ay ibang-iba na kung kaya’t binalot siya ng Tila ito nga ang pinatunayan ni Juanito L. Agana o mas kilala bi- pangamba.Aniya, “Ibang-iba sa dating nakagisnan. May mga gabing lang Ate Janette nang maisipan niyang magbalik-aral sa edad na kuwarenta. wala akong tulog, kapos sa perang pambili ng materyales para sa mga Bagaman batid niya ang hirap na mararanasan dahil sa tagal niyang nahi- proyekto, at marami pang iba. Hindi lingid sa aking kaalaman ang pa- nto sa pag-aaral, agwat niya sa kaniyang mga kaklase at idagdag pa riyan hirapang pagsagot sa mga modyul at Activity Sheets. Hirap ako sa mga ang pagpasok niya sa trabaho bilang parlorista ay hindi ito naging hadlang asignaturang may kinalaman sa kompiyuter. Wala akong alam. Medyo upang muli niyang buhayin ang kaniyang pangarap na makapag-aral at hindi teknikal ang aking kaalaman.” makapagtapos. Sa kabila ng lahat ng pagsubok na kaniyang naranasan, hindi “Hindi naging madali ang lahat… Hirap akong makisabay sa ito naging hadlang upang siya ay tumigil at sumuko. Sa halip, tumindig mga leksiyon sa una dahil medyo matagal-tagal din akong nahinto. Pero ang siya at ipinagpatuloy niya ang kaniyang nasimulan bitbit ang dunong na mga ito ay hindi naging hadlang para panghinaan ako. Bagkus, ginawa ko kaniyang nasalok sa paaralan. Buong-tapang niyang tinanggap ang ma- itong inspirasyon. Pagsusunog ng kilay ay aking ginawa,” wika ni Juanito. panghamong dala ng pandemya sa kaniyang pag-aaral. Dahil dito, kakikitaan sa kaniya na wala sa kaniyang bokabularyo Hanggang matapos ang taong-panuran ay ipinama- ang salitang pagsuko. Dala ang determinasyong pinanday ng kahapon, taas- las niya ang kaniyang dedikasyon at determinasyon upang abo- noo niyang tinahak ang daan papunta sa kaniyang minimithing pangarap. tin ang kaniyang pangarap. Sa huli, isa siya sa mga nagtapos Hindi niya inalintana ang mga pagod sa Batac National High School ng may at hirap na sa kaniya ay sumalubong. “Hindi naging madali ang lahat… Hirap akong maki- karangalan. Bagkus, kaniya itong hinarap nang sabay sa mga leksiyon sa una dahil medyo matagal-tagal Ayon sa kaniya, “Tunay na may ngiti at pagtitiwala sa kaniyang din akong nahinto. Pero ang mga ito ay hindi naging masasabing kailan- sarili. hadlang para panghinaan ako. Bagkus, ginawa ko itong man hindi had- Saksi ang tarangkahan ng inspirasyon. Pagsusunog ng kilay ay aking ginawa”. lang ang edad paaralang nagsilbing kanlungan niya sa pagkamit ng dalawang taon sa kung papaano ng mga niya pinagsumikapang makisabay sa kaniyang mga kaklase. Sa katunayan, pangarap.” Walang madali nagsilbi siyang inspirasyon hindi lamang sa loob ng kanilang klasrum kundi sa mundo. Lahat ng bagay pati na rin sa buong paaralan dahil sa ipinakita niyang katangian bilang na nais nating makamtan isang estudyante. Sa paglipas ng mga araw ay tuluyan na ngang napalitan ay dumadaan sa proseso. ng kaginhawaan ang kaniyang mga pag-aatubili. Nariyan iyong luluha ka. Naging magaan ang bawat araw sapagkat napawi na ang At nariyan naman iyong lu- anomang pag-aalinlangan. Dahil lundag ka sa tuwa. Ngunit ang sa angking talento at galing, hindi ni miminsang naging kinatawan mahalaga, huwag sumuko bas- siya ng paaralan sa mga patimpalak kung saan nag-uwi siya at nagkamit ng ta-basta sapagkat makararating mga karangalan. saan ka man nakatadhana. Gaano Ngunit tila hindi sumasang-ayon sa kaniya ang panahon nang man katagal bago mo ito makuha. biglang dumating ang pandemya. Hindi naging madali sa kaniya ang nag-

Modular Learning: FILIPINO Ako Ngayong Bagong Kadawyan Thrixie Dul-loog “Beep! Beep! Beep!” Tunog ng ang kanilang nasimulan. Lalong naging mga nagkakarerang sasakyan sa daan. matibay ang lahat upang mapagtagum- “Bilis! Late na tayo.” “Uy! May as- payan ang unang taon ng pandemya sa signment ka ba sa Math?” Linyahan ng pag-asang babalik muli ang dating na- mga estudyanteng nag-uunahan sa pag- kagisnan. Ngunit katulad sa isang peli- pasok sa tarangkahan ng paaralan. kula, dumadating din ito sa hangganan. “Tak! Tak! Tak!” Senyales na pap- unta na si ma’am sa klasrum dahil sa tu- “Ma’am, kailan po ang pagpasa ng mga nog ng kanyang makintab na sapatos. modyul?” Kisapmata… Sa isang iglap ay “Ang daming modyul naman tila kisapmatang nagbago ang dating na- nito. Kailan ko pa kaya matatapos?” kagawian. Ang dating abalang kalsada, “Pasesniya na po, ma’am. Hindi animo’y nagmamakaawa na sa muling pa tapos ang mga modyul ko.” pagdaan ng mga sasakyan. Ang paaralang “Wala na akong bond paper. dati ay katutunogan ng mga halakhak ng Hindi pa ako tapos sa pag-reproduce.” mga mag-aaral at pangaral ng mga guro, Sa paglipas ng mga araw ay na- umaasa na lamang sa pagsayaw at pagpa- tunghayan ko ang hirap ng mga guro pakitang-gilas ng mga puno at halaman mula sa paghahanda ng mga kagamitan sa kaniyang kapaligiran. Hindi na nga tu- sa kanilang pagtuturo. Nariyan ang mga lad nang dati. Hay, tunay nga ang salitang hindi maisatinig na pagod sa pagrere- daynamiko. Walang pinipiling oras. bisa at paglilimbag ng mga modyul na Nagulantang ang lahat sa pagba- sinasabayan pa ng mga hindi mabilang bagong dulot ng pandemyang Covid-19. na palihan. Pansin ko na rin ang hindi Hindi nga maitatang- ging dala nito ay sigwa maipagkakailang pag- sa bawat isa. Marami ang aalinlangan ng mga naapektuhan at kabilang mag-aaral sa posibleng na nga rito ang sektor kalabasan ng kanilang ng edukasyon. Nagsul- pagmo-modyul sa ka- putang mga pangamba dahilanang nahihira- at katanungan ang nan- pan silang sagutan ang gibabaw hindi lamang sa mga guro kun- mga ito. Idagdag na di pati na rin sa mga mag-aaral at mga rin ang mga salitang lumalabas sa bibig magulang. Ngunit katulad sa maraming ng mga magulang sa tuwing pinapaala- pagkakataong panunubok sa Kagawaran, lahanan sila sa pagkuha ng mga modyul ito ay hindi nagpatinag at muli nitong sa paaralan. Kung minsa’y nasasambit ipinakita ang katatagan sa anomang pana- na rin ng ilan na pag-aaksaya na lamang hon. Mula nga rito ay nabuo ako. Ako ng oras ang pagmo-modyul at nais na na naging alternatibong paraan upang sa nilang bumalik ang dati kung saan ma- ganitong sitwasyon ay mapanatili ang ka- giliw na naipapaliwang ng mga guro ang husayan ng mga mag-aaral at muli silang nilalaman ng mga libro. makasalok ng karunungan. Sari-saring mga senaryo ang na- Mula sa pagkakaroon ng face-to- tutunghayan sa sektor ng edukasyon face classes ay pinakibagayan ako ng mga ngayong panahon ng pandemya. Tunay guro dahil sa bagong kadawyan na ipina- nga namang ang lahat ay bago sa ating nukala ng kagawaran. Sa unang taon ay pakiramdam. Ngunit sa aking pagdating, aking nabatid ang pagpupursige ng mga wala akong ibang hinangad kung hindi guro makamit lamang ang kanilang mith- ang maipagpatuloy lamang ang pagha- iin na makapaghatid ng dunong sa mga hatid ng kapaki-pakinabang at mahusay mag-aaral. Ang dating chalk at pisara na na pag-aaral sa mga mag-aaral. Oo, ako, kanilang kagamitan ay napalitan ng mga ang Modular Learning ngayong bagong coupon bond at printer sa kani-kanilang kadawyan. mga silid-aralan dahil sa mga modyul na Walang sinoman ang nakakaalam magiging kasangkapan sa paghahatid ng kung hanggang kailan ang pandemyang kaalaman sa mga mag-aaral na uhaw sa ito. Ngunit, ako ay lagi sanang pahalaga- kabatiran. han. Nang sa gayon, pagkatapos ng tani- Kapares ng matang bagong bukas kalang ito masasabi pa ring nagkaroon pa lamang, pilit akong ibinagay ng mga ng magandang pangyayari ang pandemya guro, mag-aaral at mga magulang sa ka- dahil nabuo ang pamamaraang nakapag- nilang pang-araw-araw na buhay. Baga- patuloy sa pagbabahagi ng kaalaman at man malayo sa dating nakagawian, hindi dunong sa mga mag-aaral, ako, ang Mod- ito naging hadlang upang ipagpatuloy ular Learning.

OPINION The outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in late Covid19 wastes in pieces 2019 is far more than a global health crisis. It is affecting our so- cieties and economies and has had a deep impact on our every- We take precautions through our hygiene, not taking into day lives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the consideration that clean water is a major factor of sanitation. There COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic and the number of victims is still is this saying that goes: What you send out comes back to you. rapidly spreading across the world. With the mutated variants still causing an unpredictable wave of infections, we could not deny the fact that we are still dependent on facemasks as basic protection from the virus. Two years since this pressing pandemic has started, and news on the discarded facemasks, faceshields and other covid re- lated wastes started to creep under on landfills, swim in the rivers and oceans and clog canals and drainage. As the pandemic continues, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has renewed its call to discard used face masks properly to prevent risks of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) transmission. “Protection against COVID-19 goes be- yond following the minimum health protocols and the use of face masks and face shields. Our responsibility extends to the disposal of these healthcare items which are potentially contaminated,” said DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu. We care about our health too much that we forget that one of the major keys of our health and wellness is a clean environment. We should learn from the past flashfloods that some of us had ex- perienced due to wastes clogging canals and waterways. Covid wastes can be toxic to our health and to the environment. Valdez hosts opening program of the 5th NCCC By Princess Labrador NEWS . Valdez is the only host who focused on the role of biodiversity to represented Region 1 in the confer- climate stability. A part of the activity is Valdez has undergone rigiif speaking and scriptwriting training prior to her tasks as a student host. ence and was assigned to be one of the virtual field trip to the Danjugan Is- She was also assisted by the DRRMS staff before and during her hosting of the opening program the hosts during its opening program land conducted by Philippine Reef and on November 19. She has undergone Rainforest Conservation Foundation. Among all qualified student The conference was organ- hosting workshops and training with It also featured different youth advo- applicants in the country, Lovelyn Val- ized by the Department of Education other student hosts in preparation to cates, and climate change and biodi- dez of the Grade 10 was one of the 20 through the Disaster Risk Reduction their hosting task for the conference. versity experts who discussed issues select students chosen to host the 5th and Management Service (DRRMS), With the theme ‘Reinforcing on climate change. National Climate Change Conference, in celebration of the Global Warming the Youth’s Role in Stewardship of “It was really an honor to rep- November 19-25. and Climate Change Consciousness Biodiversity for Climate Stability’, the resent not only the Schools Division of Week 5th National Climate Change Confer- the City of Batac but our Region in the ence (NCCC) celebration was aimed national event. I am thankful because to provide a platform to elevate discus- I became one of the instruments in sions, strategize participatory and con- providing a platform for my learners crete actions that can be done to cre- to voice out their demands for climate ate meaningful change, and help the action and feature their pro-active re- learners, personnel, and their families sponse to the changing climate,” Val- gain a deeper appreciation and aware- dez said on her hosting journey. ness of the country’s vast biodiversity. Batac National High School The virtual conference was teachers and principal, Ms. Ditas G. streamed through the DepEd Philip- Domingo, are also eyeing to discover pines Facebook page, making it ac- and hone skilled and talented students cessible to learners, DepEd personnel, who will participate in other activities of and the public all over the country. It the Department of Education. Batac NHS Science Department facilitates activities for NSTW 2021 By Joshua Pacli Batac National High School’s ence exhibits and hands-on and minds- Science teachers guided the students during the implementation of the activities in the different Science Department has successfully on activities. These activities brought learning centers and 911 Libraries. organized different activities for the real-life experiences to the students. learners to celebrate the National Sci- Such initiative of the Science teachers ence and Technology Week (NSTW) provided students with insight on how which carries the theme “Agham at different processes of knowledge are Teknolohiya: Tugon sa Hamon ng Pan- initiated and progressed, and how in- ahon”, November 22-28. novative technological processes are Science teachers met the developed, employed and increase in learners in the 911 Libraries to facili- importance. tate not only the learning experiences “More fun and mind-boggling in the subject but to feature the latest activities are expected to be facilitated products and innovations, projects, in the learning nooks and 911 libraries and researches of the Department of to be organized by the Science teach- Science and Technology (DOST). ers this school year, so learners should Among the activities during the watch out,” said Mrs. Josie D. Taradel, celebration of the NSTW were the sci- subject coordinator.

BNHS Pushes FEATURE Digitization BY LOVELYN VALDEZ The present COVID-19 pandemic has brought extraordi- Moreover, self-learning modules, activity sheets and nary challenges and has affected different sectors in the country. other learning materials downloaded from the division learning por- In the educational context, school gates were shut for face-to-face tal are also uploaded in the system so that subject teachers can instruction and work from home for teachers and employees was easily access them anytime. School accomplishments and victories implemented. Accordingly, administrators as well as the teaching are also being highlighted in the system. With the help of the BNHS force are implementing plans and procedures on how to continu- Infosys, information dissemination was made easier most especial- ously provide quality education to the learners given the limitations ly in times of pandemic. and restrictions due to the pandemic. Another digitization move of the Batac National High School Because of this limitations and restrictions, The Batac Na- is the E- newspaper, a digital format of “The Builders”, the official tional High School, being true to its commitment in delivering qual- publication of the school. With this, campus news and other relevant ity education for the present generation, strategizes to push for the features will be digitally available to the students and stakeholders. digitization of some of the school processes through different ICT- This is also an avenue for the school campus journalist to exercise based innovations. These innovations are designed for a more ef- their journalistic abilities. fective and efficient delivery of school services to its stake holders. Other digitization efforts of the school include the E-enrol- One of the ICT-based innovations of the school is the BNHS ment, E-konsulta kay dok, ICT (I Can Teach) and others. The school Infosys. It is designed to improve the quality management in the believes that it must adapt to any situation to better serve its clien- school level. BNHS Infosys is a web-based site wherein school teles. Thus, in this time of pandemic, BNHS pushes digitization. memoranda, notices of meetings and announcements are post- ed. When Vegetable Gardening In this system, teachers can easily monitor latest school up- Becomes Life-Saving dates and important announcements even they are away from the school because of the Work from Home arrangement, they can By Princess Labrador also immediately respond to these notices as they can access it anytime. The pandemic did not hinder the selected Agriculture stu- dents from Grade 9 to 12 to use their skills in mulch preparation When times are difficult, food is also in scarcity. Most peo- and crop maintenance. Through the guidance of their teachers, they were able to establish their own simple backyard gardens ple depend on instant food found in the market for supplies, not and the others were permitted to help in maintaining the school gardens through the assigned Agriculture teachers. L i k e w i s e , knowing that there will be a time that they need to grow their some parents helped in the preparation of plots and in trans- planting seedlings such as pepper, eggplant, squash, gabi, papa- own food for them to live. ya, sweet potato, sitaw, native vegetables such as sugod-sugod and pallang. The pressing times taught us to be wise. It is surprising BNHS teachers have also undergone the Learning Action Cell (LAC) Session on School Children Field School on Biodiver- that even though schools are closed for the students, they are sity, Climate Change and Nutrition thru Sustainable Vegetable Production of the school. Topics focused on the use of Carbon- still being taught to plant vegetables for food. In the pre-pan- ized Rice Hull as major source of Carbon, vermicomposting, and concoctions (FFJ, FPJ and FAA) for complete organic fertilizers. demic times, the Gulayan sa Paaralan (GPP) has been a platform They also had their hands-on making of complete organic ferti- lizers. to promote sustainability and good health. It has been consid- Indeed, there is always a room for adjustment and learn- ing both for students and educators. These could give us life- ered the basket of nutrition because it helps in maintain the nu- saving skills that will make us survive this crisis. tritional needs of the students. This goal did not stop, because of the Gulayan sa Tahanan of the Brigada Eskwela which was also strengthened by the AGMULA of the 4As. The GPP garden has already an existing area in the school and maintained crops since the beginning of the school year in October 2020, the time when pandemic is still bringing difficul- ties to our province. These crops were the pinakbet group such as the ampa- laya eggplant, tomatoes, saluyot, pechay, sitaw and kangkong as side crop, fruits and tree crops such as, tamarind, citrus, pa- paya and the lowly but nutrition-packed malunggay. The school has already established vermibeds as a major source for organic fertilizers of the gulayan.

Pinoy athletes winning amid crisis The past year gave us a haul of medals that awed sports fans lo- cally amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We can still remem- The year 2020 immobilized the world because of the mutated virus ber how proud we were when the sturdy Hidilyn Diaz kicked things off which is invisible to the human eye. We were forbidden to go out, shake for the first-ever Filipino gold medal in Olympics. That moment was so hands and even speak without social distancing. It was a game changer historic that it overshadowed all national events and news in the country most especially to the annual events that we look forward to as Filipinos. from the day of her winning in July 26 until now. It even produced social The world froze to give way to our total safety and it was a total crisis. media memes of parents training their toddlers to weightlift and be the Then came 2021. It was a year of step-by-step recovery. We were future Hidilyn. still afraid of the unseen virus, but at least, some could go out provided At the height of Diaz’ popularity also were some athletes, who, that they follow health and safety protocol. Pinoys missed events that may have not been able to bring home gold medals like the female weight- made them scream and cheer. lifter, but still made the Filipinos proud. Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, and Eumir Marcial who also brought home other three medals, two silver from Petecio and Paalam and one bronze from Marcial, all from the Tokyo Olympics. The overwhelming winnings in the sports world did not stop be- cause Yuka Saso became the first Filipino golfer to win in the US Wom- en’s Open. Following her winning is EJ Obiena’s winning giving him the status as Asia’s newest pole-vaulting sensation. While Caloy Yulo proved his is a gymnastics expertise by winning it all in the vault event of the World Championships in Japan capping the year with a silver in parallel bars. Pinoys are unbeatable when it comes to boxing, we have the best athletes. Aside from the legendary Manny Pacquiao, we had the likes of Nonito Donaire, who stunned the world on May 30 when he knocked out Nordine Oubaali for the WBC bantamweight title. Despite the restrictions due to the pandemic and lack of support, our Filipino athletes still managed to thrive and show to the world that they are also strong contenders. These winnings made the Filipinos see the light of hope for the country, because somewhere out there in the corners of a sports training center or on someone else’s backyard, an athlete is training to be the next gold medalist in an international sports event. Cycling as a safe sport Simply wearing a helmet can prevent many unintentional bike deaths. Secondly, a cyclist or a biker should always check his equipment before riding. By Chazzea Lance Galacgac Bike accidents aren’t always caused by a distracted driver or an unexpected bump in the road. If the bicycle equipment malfunctions, this might contribute to a significant number of accidents. So, make sure to check on them before hitting the road. Next, a cyclist should wear reflective materials. Limited visibility is also a contributor to bike accidents. Accident is more likely to happen is a driver can- More and more people especially teenagers have been into cycling as not see you. Installing reflectors on your bike and wearing bright and reflective their hobby. We often see them cycling the shoulder lanes of the road not know- clothing might be a life changer. Lastly, always follow traffic rules and road signs. ing when and where we will pass by them again. Oftentimes we pass by them Always keep your hands on your bike and be familiar with road and traffic rules. resting at the edge of the road, plazas, and even in sheds, resting their tired legs Stay off the sidewalks and use dedicated bike lanes or shoulder lanes, they are and torso. intended for bikes and slow-moving vehicles. The road is full of distracted and It is a good hobby, but there are limitations to this activity. More often vicious drivers and might not know when you will encounter them. than not, we see these young bikers going out of the shoulder lanes where they Keep safe by keeping your hands on the bike. Limit doing exhibitions on supposed to cycle. There have been social media rants about them being sneaky the road because these might give you a stumble that you don’t want to experi- in the road that they even take over the main lanes where big vehicles run. They ence anymore. might feel some kind of satisfaction by doing these, but we cannot deny the fact Lastly, remember, that before anything else, accomplish first your mod- that aside from they are disobeying traffic rules, they are also putting their lives at ules before spending your time in biking. It is not bad to be into it, because this is stake. a good exercise for the body, but you should always give first your commitment So how do we make cycling, not only as a sports activity but a safe into your academic endeavors. Because like biking, your education can also take hobby? First and foremost, we have seen how effective wearing helmet you to beautiful and exciting places. is. It reduces risks especially of head injuries. Batac NHS Athletes: Where are they now? By Rhean Benigno “Heads up Blue Panthers!” ketball coach of our very own team We were unconquerable, This is the usual opening statement whistles and throws the ball signi- the color blue that we wore in the whenever we read news of win- fying the start of the game for the past sports events stood up like a nings from sports competitions in Intramurals. panther ready to to roar away his the division, region and even in the Who could forget the cheers opponents.And who does not miss national sports events. We missed and yells that turned to boos and the Tambureros de Bungon? The the yells when sir Danny, the bas- laughter? Learners oftentimes lose drummers give life to every open- ing program of the intramurals and their voices just drums our tiredness away during But for now, the athletes to give their all- our long walks during parades. might have turned into cyclists, or out cheers to When everything goes back competing in online games, or play- their MVPs. We to normal again, people will slowly ing basketball in their community were all ener- go back to sports events with the with friends, we do not know, but getic, like the spectators and fans. Athletes will we can still find their eagerness to athletes, we again dribble the ball in basketball, be in their respective games again, were enduring run till run out of breath in running if time will allow, and if everything the heat of the events, shout “mine!” for the ball in will go back to where they were. sun just to cap- volleyball, and offer snacks or any ture the action- refreshments like water to hydrate packed serve the players if you are an official wa- and smash off ter girl or boy. the ball.