Literary Magazine

CONTENTS CONTENTS COVER STORY 4 BIOGRAPHY 5 MEMOIRS 16 19 22 ESSAYS 26THE BEAUTY UNDERWATER WE DON'T LEARN 28 30HOPES FOR ALGERE OCEAN CREATIVE JOURNAL ARTICLE SILAKBO: SOLIDARIDAD MODERNA 33 EMPOWER A WOMEN 35

THE TEAMEditor in Chief Angelena Batucan Assistant Editor in Chief Mariegold Dungog Creative Director Mary Maxine Borres Paulianne Josh Cobbarubias Writers & Contributors Alexa Hurtado Angel joy Verano Angelena Batucan Erika Amante Karla Sardoncillo Nina Marie Maneja

WHAT'S LA MODERNA SOLIDAD? \"We live by experience, and our experience distinguishes us from others\". As modernization evolves, mysterious stories about one's life come to life more and more. Despite life's constant challenges, it is solidarity that keeps us going. Having someone to walk with along the path, even if your soles are burned and your footprints from behind are tragic, may be the most basic form of solidarity. Your story may be different, but humans are inextricably linked; what matters is that we protect and preserve what was once told and what will be told. This zine, titled \"La moderna solidaridad,\" or \"the modern solidarity,\" will bring you real-life stories ranging from memories to unforgettable events. Different stories from various authors are compiled into a single magazine that promotes human solidarity, avoids indifference, and serves as a listener and inspiration. We want everyone to know that they are beautiful in spite of their history and the rush of modernity. You don't have to keep everything to yourself; there will be people who will admire your courage in every detail you share and express. This is a fight for justice and free speech; to be heard and to be seen. We may not have the same lives, bodies, or feelings, but we do live on a common ground. \"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,\" Hellen Keller famously said. In this battle, you are not alone because you must remember that you are an important piece in someone's puzzle. Let us help in molding one another. COVER STORY

IOGRAPH

BY: KARLA SARDONCILLO Alexa Hurtado, also called “Alex” is 18 years old. She was born on July 11, 2003, at Dalaguete, Cebu. She is currently living in Bulacao, Talisay City, Cebu. She is currently a student of University of San Jose - Recoletos. She is currently in grade 12 taking an academic strand of Humanities and Social Sciences. She graduated elementary at Tabunok School of Learning and continued studying high school in St. Scholastica’s Academy in Tabunok as well. Her hobbies are cooking and reading books. She is also the youngest in the Family. Her dream is to be a Psychologist as she aspires to help other people who are in need. Her favorite quote is “ Learn to rest not to quit” . You can really tell that she is really strong and is not giving up easily.

BY: MARY MAXINE BORRES Mariegold Lepiten Dungog was born on February 17, 2004, at Bacolod City Negros Occidental. She is the youngest daughter of Joemarie Dungog Sr. and Marichu Dungog. In her Highschool, she studied at Talisay City National Highschool where she discovered her talent in acting. She always joined Theatric activities in her school and she is always awarded as the best performer. Not only that she also participated in extracurricular activities in her high school years like cheer dance, dance palabas, and many mention. Presently, she is in her 12th Grade of Senior Highschool at the University of San Jose- Recoletos and she is taking Humanities and Social Sciences Strand. She is trying her best to finish her strand as she plans to study in the United States for her College Degree.

BY: ANGEL JOY VERANO Erika Amante, also known as Kang, is a Senior High School student aspiring to take Law. She is studying Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of San Jose Recoletos. One of the graduating classes of 2021-2022. Her academic excellence was recognized when she was in elementary school at Saint Francis School of Alegria Inc. when she was chosen to be a member of a research team to compete in a division-level investigatory project, and her team was awarded third place that day. She received her first honorable mention in elementary school and was awarded as the most eloquent speaker. She continued her secondary education at Santa Filomena National High School. She began journalism in 9th grade and came fourth out of 15 ASPC qualifiers even as a first- timer. In 10th grade, she became the assistant editor-in-chief of GAPNOD (School paper.) She also became the Supreme Student Government (SSG) secretary. Kang enjoys spending time in nature and playing chess. She is determined and inspired to fulfill her present journey and pursue her dreams for the future.

BY: MARIEGOLD DUNGOG Mary Maxine R. Borres, also known as \"Max,\" was born on April 1, 2003 in Cebu City. She was born with a condition called \"hemangioma\" that caused her to be a differently abled person. She is currently living in Suba, Cebu City with her family. Mary Maxine Borres graduated from elementary school at Young Homes Learning Center, Inc. She stopped studying for a year due to her health problems and continued her junior high school studies with the help of the Alternative Learning System. She is currently a grade 12 student studying at the University of San Jose - Recoletos with a strand of Humanities and Social Sciences, or HUMSS. She pursued her strand because she aspired to be a psychiatrist someday. She is planning to take a Bachelor of Science in Psychology course in college.

BY: ERIKA AMANTE Angel Verano also known as “Angel”, is a Senior High School student at the University of San Jose- Recoletos with the strand of Humanities and Social Sciences. Her academic excellence was when she was a consistent honor student at Cebu City Central School in elementary school. She continued her secondary school education at Abellana National High School. She was also a member of the Abellana National School Dance Troupe. She intends to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology because she aspires to help others, including herself. Studying her passions and wanting to understand the decision she made.

BY: GILL KAITHY ADEM Niña Maneja is a 19-year- old. She was born on April 23, 2003, and lives in Pardo Quiot Cebu City. A student at the University of San Jose - Recoletos. She is currently in grade 12 taking an academic strand of Humanities and Social Sciences. Niña is a choir member in their community, she is also in love with nature and actively in outdoor activities like hiking, jogging, and more. Despite being a full-time student, she always has a time regard for their community, Niña is a part of \"Sangguniang Kabataan\" a youth who personally volunteers to help clean and inspect to maintain the cleanliness in their barangay.

BY: ALEXA HURTADO KARLA SARDONCILLO September 1, 2003, may have been a simple and normal day for everyone, however, as for Mr. and Mrs. Sardoncillo, it was a special and very beautiful day. It was the day when their second child was born. Karla Michille O. Sardoncillo was born on September 1, 2003. Karla is already 18 years old now and would turn 19 in a few months. She is currently living at 23 Cabreros st. Basak, San Nicolas, Cebu City. Her friends would address her like her first name, Karla. Karla graduated Elementary at St. Mary’s Academy of San Nicolas. After elementary school, she then proceeded to go to the University of Cebu- Mambaling Campus as her school for Junior High School. She successfully completed her Junior High School in 2020 and then chose the University of San Jose as her school for Senior High School. Currently, she is a 12th-grade student in University of San Jose recoletos and taking up the HUMSS strand. Karla is planning to pursue teaching for her job as it is her dream that she wants to reach. When Karla dreams, she makes sure it is a big dream as she is also an aspiring business woman. Karla does many things but she has few hobbies that she would love to do everyday and it is cooking, and sleeping. Even though it is a bit ironic since Karla is a picky eater and doesn’t just eat any food. Karla is living a good life because she has been applying this saying to her which is doing everything that would make her happy.

BY: SHIENA MAE QIMADA ANGELENA BATUCAN Angelena Christine M. Batucan was born in Cebu City. She was exposed to participating in various competitions and activities as a child. During her elementary school years, she began developing a trademark for herself. She graduated as the class's 2nd Honorable mention and won awards due to her diligence and perseverance as a student. Upon entering Junior High school at Cebu Institute of Technology University. Still, she continued doing what she had always desired: serving the students and growing as an individual. She has led numerous organizations and activities that have significantly contributed to her batch's overall success, She won as an SSG Officer way back in her Junior High School days and was also the program director for the GSP, where she flourished as a visionary leader who always put her best foot forward. In her senior year, she was again exposed to a new environment, this time on the campus of the University of San Jose Recoletos. As a HUMSS student, she has accomplished significant milestones and set a precedent for excellence. She joined the USWAG movement, which has provided her with opportunities. She joined the HUMSS Ambassadress 2021 competition, where she won the crown and title. She ran in the 2021 elections and was elected as the Vice President. During her tenure in the SSG, she managed several projects that significantly contributed to the department. Due to her abilities, she continued her passion for hosting and leading, and more people began to recognize her as an innovative and savvy worker. Currently, she continues to be an inspiration to other people. She occasionally goes unnoticed, but her influence on numerous individuals will not change. Her life experiences have elevated her and shaped her into who she is today. She encountered many obstacles that did not prevent her from moving forward and dreaming again; this has become her core. If people know one thing about her, she was and will always be a strong woman whose vision continues to be set forth toward change.

BY: JESTIAN ROVIE SABAN PAULIANNE COBARRUBIAS Paulianne Josh F. Cobarrubias, commonly called as \"poyan\" or \"polyan,\" is an 18-year-old University of San Jose - Recoletos Humanities and Social Sciences student. He resides in Cebu City's Sugarlandia Bacayan. He spent his whole primary school years and graduated from Santa Isabel Child Development Center in Borbajo Talamban, Cebu City, before continuing his education at Academia de San Jose Mandaue. He finished his 11th year studies at Saint Louis College Cebu for an entire school year. He enjoys playing video games with his buddies, singing, and cooking, as well as being actively involved in organizational activities. He was formerly Head of Public Relations at 032 PLAY and is now the Head of Esports and Business Development for The LootBox Agency, an esports services provider. He is also the Senior Vice President of the United Young Leaders Coalition (UYLC) and the Special Project Head of Public Relations at GoLead. When it came to events in his barangay, Paulianne had plenty of experience. He originally decided to major in Political Science in college, but Paulianne is presently undecided owing to recent events. He is a passionate supporter of Leni-Kiko's governance program and is always prepared to help people.

MEMO OIRS e MMMMMMEEEEEEMMMMMMOOOOOOIIIIIIRRRRRRSSSSSS

BULAK By: Erika Amante

“Ekang! Mata dinha naa koy ipakita nimo” “Ali Kang pasimhuton tika” (Ekang! Wake up I have something to show (Come here Kang, I’ll let you smell it) you) “My neighbor friend's mother When my neighbor's voice startled my approached us as soon as she said that. half-awake state, it transformed my blurry She's one of those 'plantita,' and I could vision into owl-like eyes. I nodded in tell by her expression how much she response, and she took a step towards her adored the rose, and her eyes seemed to house. 'What is she up to this early?' I sparkle when she looked at it. wondered as I began to fold my blankets and arrange my pillows. After finishing my “Hinaya ninyog hikap ang tanom kay morning task, I dashed out of my room to mangapupo unya” Her mother said greet my neighbor, just as my (Gently touch the plant because the grandmother's voice glued my soles to the petals could fall off) cold cement right next to the front door. We both nodded and took turns sniffing “Sayo rapod ka mo duty sa silinganan? the rose. I was so taken with it that I Pagkaon dinhi manang, laag lang sige couldn't stop complimenting its beauty naas imong gihuna-huna” and fragrance. The plant is right in front (You appear to be on a neighborhood duty of our balcony, and I couldn't stop early? Manang, eat your breakfast; all you staring at it for hours. Nature's wonders ever think about is going out.) always seemed to draw my innermost being as a child. I did not say a word to my grandma or else I’ll end up getting a speech I never asked As soon as I awoke the next morning, I for. I headed to the dining table and went to the balcony and was astounded prepared my breakfast. As soon as I was to discover that the flower rose had done I immediately went to my neighbor’s vanished. I asked my next-door house. neighbor, who was sitting right next to the window, what had happened to the “Awa Kang! Kani akong gipasabot nimo, flower. among rose namulak na humot kaayo!” (Look Kang! This is what I meant to show “Cious, Nawala lagi inyong bulak?” I you, our rose bloomed and it smells so asked good) (Cious, your flower seemed to be out of sight?) I directed my gaze in the direction she mentioned, and I can tell in the back of my mind that my field of vision is in awe. I've never seen a rose quite like this before. It's the size of my palm, and the color is out of the ordinary. It has an orange to peachy color, and here I thought roses were only red, but I guess I'm just a kid after all.

As soon as I awoke the next morning, I “Ayaw nalang gud pamotbot, kabalo man went to the balcony and was astounded to ko nga ikaw gakuha ato. Kinsa pamay lain discover that the flower rose had vanished. diay nga ikaw may pirme gapaniid ana I asked my next-door neighbor, who was among bulak. Tug an nalang” sitting right next to the window, what had (Enough with the lies, I knew you stole that happened to the flower. flower since you kept on looking at it. Just tell the truth) “Cious, Nawala lagi inyong bulak?” I asked (Cious, your flower seemed to be out of My eyes were burning and my hand was sight?) trembling. Why am I being held accountable for something that even God \"Murag gikawat to” She simply replied. knows I did not do? There is no evidence (Guess it was stolen) to support such a claim, but I am forced to admit a crime here. I felt sorry and turned my attention to my usual household chores. After some time, “Oo akoy nagkuha” my neighbor friend's mother called me in a (Yes, I stole it) sweet voice while I was cleaning the front yard. She motioned for me to come over, Those words came out of my mouth like and I smiled as I approached her from a unwanted contents in my stomach and my distance. voice went cold; she was forcing me to As I approach her, a dark malicious aura admit something I was not guilty of, and I replaced her candy smiles. felt like I didn't have a choice, so I “Ikaw gakawat sa bulak namo no?” She accepted the blame. whispered but in my ears her voice was loud. I ran inside our house and into my room, (You stole the flower, did you?) where I sobbed. I've never felt so unjustified in my life, and it hurts my pride. Hearing those words, I had to bite my From then on, I realized that people will tongue. I felt as if my innocence was being judge you based on their level of jeopardized. understanding. Because of that flower, I told myself I will become a lawyer “Dili man ako te, Dili sad nako na someday, I no longer want to give up my mabuhat” peace of mind or my ability to speak up for (I did not do it and I don’t think I can do it) what is right and just. Perhaps I was just a bud who hadn't opened its petals yet and was judged for thy thorns at the time. \"I was just a bud who hadn't opened its petals yet and was judged for thy thorns at the time.\" -ERIKA AMANTE 2022

THE QUESTION THAT CHANGED MY LIFE

“ Unsa imo course kuhaon igka College?” When I opened my test paper and saw my “ Sure naka sa imong college course ?” “ Asa sad ka mag college ?” exam result it seemed like my world “ unsay plano ig college?” collapsed. I’ve already anticipated that my exam scores would be low but I did not These are the frequently asked questions think they would be that low. that graduating students like me get asked “ 17/ 135” all the time, maybe because society expects us to figure out everything at this I have never felt more ashamed in my age.But these questions only remind me of whole life. the time I wished to vanish badly. It I felt so ashamed during that time I didn't happened during my junior high school know what to feel. I anticipated this score when one of my friends asked me a but I did not know what I would feel when I question. We were in an abandoned classroom staying for recess when one of finally saw my score. I can only imagine what my mom would my guy friends asked me feel when she sees this score. I can already “ Unsay course kuhaon nimo igka college imagine my friend's reaction. I was diay?” he asked while drinking the juice speechless. How am I supposed to feel that he bought from our canteen. “Sigeg knowing that I got the lowest score in our pangutana oi! mag civil engineering lagi class? “Sure na jud ka mag engineer ka ko” I answered with a hint of annoyance in ana?” My classmate asked, and he my voice “Bati sad ah masuko man dayon” followed it with a boisterous laugh. During he then respond and he laughed “Kalagot that time, I didn’t know that a question like man gud ka, sigeg pangutana” I replied but that would make me question all my life this time I am very much annoyed decisions. Maybe he is right, I don’t think I I didn’t have an idea why I was very am suitable for engineering. My score was annoyed during that time, maybe because so low that I don’t think I deserve to be an my exam scores were not that high or engineer. maybe because I was hungry but either After that, I was completely confused way me being annoyed with that question because I had planned my whole life. I was a bit nonsense. knew what I wanted to do in college and *ring ring ring* what path I wanted to follow in senior high school, but I'm not sure what I'll be doing The school bell rang indicating that our after that. It appears that I've returned to break is over and we need to go back to square one in my life. It maybe a small thing to other people but for me, it was not. our classroom. “Pila imong score sa math do? ” At that exact moment, I decided that I My classmate asked me when our test would not continue pursuing civil result was returned to us. engineering anymore. Maybe it's because I was a bit hesitant in sharing my score I've come to terms with the fact that I'm not because I knew that the exam was very very good at math. hard. I did not do my best during the exam and I was clueless the whole time.

That's when I decided I wanted to vanish. I Now I am a Grade 12 HUMSS student at the thought to myself that maybe disappearing University of San Jose Recoletos and would be easier than planning and starting hopefully will graduate in a few months. all over again. Seriously though, I did not Planning to take a Bachelor of Arts in know where to start because I spent most Psychology in college. Yes, very different of my time planning for everything, not from my original plan but nonetheless it knowing that everything would change in a still makes me happy. snap. It was the change I wasn’t expecting to happen. It was the change that I never imagined would occur. And I consider myself quite fortunate to have survived all of the difficulties of I don't think I can still do it anymore. How senior high. It wasn't easy, but it was am I supposed to tell my mom that I would worth it. I am grateful for my environment not continue with my plans to become an because everyone appears to be friendly. It engineer when she had already announced feels like I'm exactly where I'm supposed it to almost everyone. I’m sure that my to be. cousins would be disappointed in me I thought to myself that if I followed my because the four of us planned to pursue original plan then what would happen to the same course and go to the same me maybe the environment will not be the university. same as where I am now. My original plan was to be dead right before I started senior high school But there are still nights that I cannot help because I am still not sure about my senior and fall into my deep thoughts, high school strand either. What would happen to me if I followed my original plan ? I thought to myself that maybe the reason Would I be able to survive senior high why I do not have plans for senior high is school knowing that I would have low that I will be dead during that time. grades in some subjects? But looking back now, I truly believe that Would I still be this happy and grateful for everything happens in its own perfect time. my environment? Those are some of the questions that I ask myself whenever I overthink at night. -ALEXA HURTADO 2022 It took me years to realize that it is okay to change your plans and make new ones. \"Life is all about changes That is what life is. It is all about changes and you need to accept these and you need to accept these changes so changes so that you won’t that you won’t have a hard time in life. have a hard time. \" I learned that even if my plans will change years from now at least I know what to do since I already experienced it before.

FAVORITE MEAL By: Angelena Christine M. Batucan

\"Nope, but I will be.\" The same reason given is also not the reason why I was the head planner of the I instantly answered like it was a question girl scouting movement and, at the same repeated numerous times. Well, they asked time, the head plans and programs officer me again for the nth time if I wanted to be of Cebu Institute of Technology- like my mom. Suppose I wanted to be the University’s mother organization during next ‘Teacher Grace’ of Bulacao my 10th grade. It was not my passion that Community School. The “teacher grace” gave me the power to be the President of who effortlessly took good care of the Supreme Pupil Government and, at the students with special needs; the teacher same time, the patrol leader of my school’s who has imparted a lot of awards for being girl scouting movement for three an outstanding SPED Teacher. consecutive years in my 6th grade. Yes, it wasn’t that. I may have been advocating for the rights of people with special needs. I may have It all started from keeping in mind that the the heart for them. But guess what? I have words the people must utter are ‘anak never dreamed or wished to become a mana siyag maestra gud maong dapat Special Education teacher. It has never kamao na siya’ and must not be the ‘anak brought a spark or sign that I want to mana siyag maestra diba? Bogo lage na pursue such a field. Never! It's nothing siya?’ compared to the feeling of excitement when you ask me about broadcasting, That mindset of mine pushed me to hosting, voiceover, and such, but anyway, engage in a lot of things. When I say ‘a lot’, I will be, I will still be like her; I will be the I mean, A LOT. next her in the end. It's what they want, it’s what she wants. It has always been for I joined Girl Scouting Movement activities, them and about them. from backyard campings down to regional campings. I participated in quiz bees, And oh- enough of the ‘teacher’ talk. storytelling, declamation, oration, spoken poetry, journalism, and other academic Yes, yes, and yes! I so love speaking! It competitions. May it be school, district, fuels the spirit in me. I feel powerful using unit, division, or regional level. my voice because it gives me energy and hope. It is something I am very much I as well became the lead majorette of the passionate about. As someone who loves drum and bugle corp, lead dancer of our attention, the attention given to me in folk-dance troupe, and was once a Sinulog public speaking is just a plus, though. dancer. But anyway, being in love with public I did everything. But never once did I speaking is not the reason why I am complain. I did it all because I have always currently able to sit in an executive wanted to make her proud. position in the University of San Jose Recoletos’ mother organization as Vice- And oh, wait-- was I able to give a President and, at the same time, hold the disclaimer? HUMSSambassadress 2021 title.

Well, on all of those things, I was told to make ’Nganong gapakauwaw man ka!?” sure to bring the bacon home, reach the regional level, or must secure a spotlight on “Unsa man to imong gibuhat nak oy!?” stage. “Skwelahan imong gi represent ato unya ing After all the experiences I have been through, ato imong gipakita?” there's this one competition that will forever be stuck in my mind. It was this district-level “Imo jud kong gipakauwawan, nak” spoken poetry competition. I felt tons of pressure during this competition due to an Boom! Straight-up pain! Hearing other issue with a teacher who never wanted me to people's words broke my heart, but when I win. heard those words from the only person I thought would forever be there to support me, Well, unfortunate of her though, because I made my heart shattered into pieces. won. Those were the words that forced me to allow Nevertheless, I prepared so hard when I knew people to manipulate the entirety of my life. I had earned the spot to represent the school. From then and then, I have told myself that I I practiced and memorized my piece all day would live up to the people's pressure, long because I was aiming to win; I have especially the pressure that my mom gives. I always been. love her so much to the point that I have already adopted and handled the pressure like But destiny wanted otherwise because I went it’s not even given at all. I am acting like a blackout during my time to compete. Sounds robot now. I don’t work well when I am not embarrassing, right? ‘Cause, it is. I forgot my under pressure. It seems like I can’t live lines and ended up losing the chance to without it anymore. represent the school at the division level. I have always been working under pressure. Anyhow, I wasn’t really in pain for losing That’s my everyday meal. I eat pressure daily because that wasn't the worst part of the like it’s my favorite. It’s pretty unhealthy competition. Do you know what is? Well, it though, but, it molded me to be the person I was the words I received that stabbed me real am now. I became the jack of all trades master hard. of none. Isn’t that a great investment? “Uwawa ato iya gibuhat sa, daghan pa jud ga I don’t encourage you to do the same but if tan aw”, “Anak mana siyag maestra gud you want to try it out. Well, you simply order. maong siyay gipadaug, awa run kita ang YOU. JUST. ORDER. Not on your favorite cafe katag”, “Ngano man to siya? Ahaka napilde nor your go-to fast-food chain. Duh? It's all in na nuon ta”, “Maypa lageg si Mary gipili mo the four corners of your home sweet home. represent” Order a plate of pressure every breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner! And kaboom~ Those were the side comments of the people I welcome to the club of grace under pressure. did not know, which affected me so much. I Tara kain tayo ng ating favorite meal, unli to don't know those people, but I was affected. ha! How much more when I heard these words… -ANGELENA BATUCAN 2022 \"I have always been working under pressure. That’s my everyday meal. I eat pressure daily like it’s my favorite. It’s pretty unhealthy though, but, it molded me to be the person I am now.\"



THE BEAUTY Underwater By: Angelena Christine M. Batucan

Oceans may be someone’s phobia, but staying in the ocean is one of the things I love doing the most. But, my love for the oceans did not start like a mermaid's journey because I was once afraid of its concept. I feel like I will be missing or going to drown anytime soon. I was already too old when I finally learned how to swim. My two younger brothers bullied me for not being fast or good at swimming. But as time passed, I was in love with the oceans. Every summer, I go back to our province in Alegria, and I get to enjoy nature's beauty freely. The ocean calls me like how it calls Moana from Disneys, and I can’t resist exploring the beauty underwater. I didn’t even realize that I was addicted to oceans too much, that it pushed and motivated me to swim more often. When I say more often, I mean every single day. And through that, I discovered a new hobby. I found free diving, and surprisingly, free diving became my escape. Seeing diverse species makes me mesmerized every time I go down deep into the ocean. I can say that it is a different world under the water, and as someone who enjoys swimming under the scary, unpredictable yet fascinating ocean, I can attest to that. I have been there; I have done that. The oceans are like a place I would consider home. It gives me comfort, peace, relaxation, and freedom, nothing compared to the world above that it surrounds. But now, it is more damaged than ever. It is disregarded and unprotected. Humans tend to overlook the issue and not realize the effects this negligence will bring. Oceans are given little to no attention by humans. You can see the garbages everywhere in the different beautiful blue shades of water. It sometimes can be seen floating near your coastal areas where kids swim and play, stuck in the coral reefs where some species live and survive, or might be choking a fish to death right now. As mentioned above, our project implementation is all about the oceans connected to all of those. It focuses on taking good care of our oceans, specifically in the Tanon Strait protected seascape area in Barangay Poblacion Tabuelan, Cebu. We then had our Ocean Talks, an online symposium promoting ocean wildlife protection and preservation. I was so immersed in implementing the online symposium. It was not because of my passion for service but my love for the oceans. Many issues arose during the topic, and it broke my heart hearing those problems that are very obvious mistakes or wrongdoings. I can’t comprehend that they are aware, knowledgeable, and informed about the issues, yet they give no care where in fact, they are the one who benefits from the advantages of such resources. Indeed, after the implementation, I felt like it sent a message. I was inspired to do something, be the voice of the voiceless oceans, and maximize my platform. All in all, I want to say that I don’t want to dive into a polluted ocean. I don’t want to see destroyed corals and fewer fish when I dive. I can’t imagine diving, and when you go back up to breathe, you are surrounded by a lot of garbage. I am not ready to lose our oceans. I am not ready to forget free diving. I am not ready that everything in the ocean will be dangerous. I am not ready for that. I currently have other advocacy that I have been focusing on for years, but I wouldn’t forget and diminish the fact that this, too, needs attention. These issues need to be voiced out, addressed, and solved. I have been enjoying such paradise without giving something in return. It is rightful for us to make plans into actions and actions into pressure. We must preserve and protect the beauty underwater.



“We need the Earth, but the Earth doesn’t need us” I remember as a child hating summer because it meant it would be so hot and I wouldn't be able to play outside because they said the heat of the sun would be unsafe. I despise summer because it is constantly sunny most of the time, and I have always preferred gloomy weather since it means I can play outside. But that was years, or even a decade ago, when everything was different and the world was a much better place than it is now. Climate change is utterly devastating. It impacts everyone and will only worsen in the future, which is really concerning. I used to wonder why so many people were pushing for and doing everything they could to change the environment, but that all changed when I saw the impacts of climate change firsthand. Now, I completely understand why they are working so hard to campaign and change the world because I want to be there with them and possibly save the Earth as well. I have a lot of baby cousins, and I don't want them to grow up in a terrifying world that isn't what it used to be. I had been considering many ways to help and make the world a better place, so I began in tiny steps.I constantly make sure that I properly dispose of my garbage and that I influence my family and friends about it. This is a very little step, but progress usually begins with small steps. Doing anything modest is preferable to doing nothing at all. I regret everything I did now that I've thought about it. I used to dismiss those who advocated for making the world a better place because I felt they were exaggerating. This did not happen until December 16, 2021. It altered my perspective and opened my eyes to reality. Prior to December 16, everyone was informed by the news that a typhoon will strike our area and that it would be a powerful storm, but I did not believe it at first and just disregarded it. When the day arrived, it was cloudy with a little drizzle. When nightfall arrived, I witnessed the most horrific moment of my life. . In fact, now that I think about it, I can't recall anything about it because of the trauma it gave me. One thing is certain: I was horrified by the sound of the wind, which sounded like a wailing cat. It was terrifying because I could hear our neighbor's roof being swept away by the wind. It was terrifying to hear the glasses smashing all around me. I've never been more afraid of nature in my life. I can't tell you how many prayers I said and how many times I begged God to keep us all safe at that time. But when daylight arrived, everything was peaceful and it appeared that no major typhoon had occurred. I was scared of nature, but I was also fascinated because when morning came, everything was tranquil and it appeared that no strong typhoon had occurred. Not long after that, another deadly storm slammed the Philippines, this time affecting Leyte. That's how terrifying nature is. The weather would be so powerful one second, and then it would be quiet and bright the next. This rapid shift in nature was driven by climate change, which has been impacting us for a long time but we are just now beginning to experience the effects. It is particularly unfortunate because this climate change is also the result of human activity, including irresponsible trash disposal. This is caused by large corporations, but it may harm everyone. As a result, I constantly encourage my family and friends to take part in various projects that will, in the end, make the world a better place. It is for the good of the planet on which we are now living. The situation on Earth is already concerning, as climate change continues to worsen over time. It is essential to participate in any effort that promotes the welfare of the planet. It would also be beneficial if everyone took part in these tiny efforts so that they had a greater influence on the environment.It has always been this way for a long time, but now that the scientists have given us time, it would be better if we took their advice. Starting with smaller increments is a great place to start since you can inspire your friends and family. Our primary purpose is to improve the Earth so that future generations can live in a safe environment. One thing I usually tell people is that we only have one planet, and it is the only one that is habitable, and slowly killing it would be the worst thing we could do. Because the transformation it will bring would touch everyone.

HOPES FOR ALEGRE OCEAN By: Erika Amante

Roosters sang in unison as the light reached the ground and reflected in every corner of our glass window. My visions were vague, but my body was wide awake out of excitement. I closed my blurry eyes and prayed for gratitude, then fixed my bed, combed my hair, and went out of the room. The aroma of freshly roasted chicken lingered in every corner of the house; the kitchen seemed to lighten up. I could hear the cooking oil doing its most significant job. My little cousins are already packing their swimwear and the sparkles in their eyes shine brightly that day. Our municipality annually celebrates the feast of San Pedro. Unlike every other feast, this one is the most anticipated because almost everyone in the municipality seems to have joined forces with the marine environment. Families would gather at the nearest shore and bring various foods and beverages, enjoying the company of each other. It’s one of the brighter days in Alegria, and that day is undeniably ‘Alegre!’ I would see my friends with their parents at a close distance. Everyone smiles at each other, and even the sun seems to smile at us. I’m not good at swimming, so I have to make sure that the water is shallow. I would get jealous over other kids who were way better at swimming because adults and teens would gather in the deeper part of the sea, but despite that, I still enjoy the shallow waters. Who wouldn’t love this time of year? It’s wholesome! But some fun needs to be paired with responsibility. After the entire joyous event, the environment despairs in silence. Scattered plastic bags and bottles along the shore danced through the sea surface dancefloor day and night, along with the whispers of the ocean breeze. Probably the only ball meant to bring a curse to the world. I hated this as a kid, especially since the elderly were the main contributors, but I could only do a little by picking up my garbage and throwing it in trash bins nearby. As the years go by, more and more wrecks have danced in the palace called marine life. I believe that most fishermen struggle to catch fish, unlike before, when they could go home early with a smile on their faces despite the heavy bucket they carry. The ocean is our best friend, and friends are not for convenience when you feel like celebrating your day; friends take care of each other and would never allow the other half to suffer. Team ASPIRE’s Josenian’s Lawodnong Duyog project aims for the preservation, protection, and pollution-free ocean wildlife. Our best friend needs healing from the mess we have created; it’s not too late to take action. If we don’t give back to the environment, the environment will be forced to take back what it has lost.

C R E A T I V E

SILAKBO: SOLIDARIDAD MODERNA

This is the modern solidarity that keeps Team ASPIRE, a group of 8 females and 1 male from Grade 12 Saint Michael the Archangel, on track to complete their project, Josenian's Lawodnong Duyog. The team faced numerous challenges along the way, but the bumpier the road, the braver they became to push through because they were made to be solidified. The people behind this project had run into a field of despair and chaos, as defined by the Filipino term \"silakbo,\" which means \"outbursts of emotions that demand to be felt.\" It is simple to visualize the goal of making the project a success, but it is more difficult to make that vision a reality. Everyone seems to get tense at the last minute, putting the finishing touches on the project, and they are always chastised for such irresponsibility. Because of the simulation's disappointments, various emotions converged. Things didn't go well at the time due to some members' unstable internet connectivity, which obviously reflected negatively on the teachers. Many documents were submitted late, and requesting consideration became an emergency call. The group was once again thrown into chaos during the implementation. It took so long for invited speakers and sponsors to respond and confirm, and the final speaker was finalized only a day after the implementation. They were in a hurry, but they never stopped pushing even though the path was very steep and they could easily fall together with their efforts at any time. Working day and night became the norm as the team became concerned about what ifs. Even on the final day of implementation, so many things were out of control that it almost seemed impossible to happen. But the hard work and determination displayed during those perilous times paid off. Not because we received high marks or because we survived, but because our Barangay Tabuelan beneficiaries gave us the best gift of all. It's the best feeling in the world to see them smile as they express their gratitude because they believe our project helped them in a way that allowed them to express their thoughts and concerns. Team ASPIRE's project aims to inspire others, but they never expected that the people would also inspire them. The ability to support others, no matter how large or small, is the healthiest feeling you can feed your heart. Team ASPIRE's journey is a modern solidarity in which various emotions pop up like confetti but they remain united for the same goal and, as a result, they were able to make the impossible possible. Each member of the group is wearing different shoes and carrying different baggage, but this hasn't stopped them from pursuing their dreams. They were able to complete the line together and will continue to forge new paths for a greater good.

EMPOWER A WOMAN!

When you think of women's empowerment, there are a lot of ideas that come to your mind. There are the mistreatments that women have encountered and the struggles that women have experienced. Women’s empowerment is still a sensitive topic for some people since there are a lot of misconceptions about it. This is a simple fact and is very sad since women have been fighting for their rights for the longest time, yet even now, women are not treated right. Even in the twenty- first century, women continue to face such mistreatments, which is unfortunate because it means women continue to face mistreatments today. Several actions and laws were specifically made for women. However, there are still people who continue to abuse and mistreat women. Women have been fighting for their rights for the longest time, and some women suffer from abuse just because they are fighting for their rights. Women worldwide have experienced different forms of mistreatment, abuse, and discrimination, and it is very unfortunate that it has been going on for the longest time. Society has always been unfair to women. They are given fewer rights and their feelings and emotions are often invalidated just because they are women. They are seen as weak individuals that have no ability to survive on their own and that they will always need men. There are people who always make women feel powerless just because they are women, that they are weak, and that they can’t face struggles by themselves. One of the saddest facts about the women's empowerment movement is the fact that there are some women who are against this movement just because they think men are better than women. Being a woman is hard because society will always expect you to always be silent about your opinion. They will expect you to just follow the orders of the men because they are far superior. These are the struggles that women encounter and have to experience every single day, and yet they are still unheard and their feelings are still invalidated just because they are women and they are always dramatic and emotional. Since women have been fighting for their rights for the longest time, it has been successful and their hard work has paid off since there are several laws that were made just to protect women from abuse and mistreatment. Despite the fact that there are already some for them, there are still those who do not have any women at all. The women's empowerment movement is not just about bringing women up and simply giving them their rights, because this movement wants more than that. This movement wants women to have an opinion on things. Well, you might say it is very easy and that women do that every time, but wait until you see those women who have been invalidated. They made them feel like they were dumb. This movement seeks to have women be given equal treatment, which means they are given the same treatment that is given to men. There are countries that do not give the same treatment. Men are given better education. They are given more opportunities. This is what the movement is all about. It is giving women the right to be heard, the right to have the right to participate in politics and wherever they want.

Women have been fighting for their rights for a long time already, and even now they are still fighting for them. The mistreatment and discrimination that they experience is something that needs to be stopped immediately. It is time to recognize that women are not weak and that they are not dramatic at all. They are just showing emotions, and it does not make them weak. Women are capable of doing things that men do as well, and society should know that. Women have suffered for a long time, and I think it is time for them to experience what they actually deserve, which is equal treatment from society. It is also the right time to know that this movement does not want women to be better than men; instead, it wants to be treated and receive the same privileges that men receive.