La Estrella Verde March - July 2022

UPHOLDER OF TRUTH. HERALD OF CHANGE. March - July 2022 Volume 6 Issue 3 A Bulb and Candle (ABC). A blended learning might be the light for this generation. Art by Aiser Levi Duque DLSU-D SHS adapts a blended modality for A.Y. 2022-2023 Tiffany Geluz Following the onset plans that transpired According to Pareja, they will start by “(Two to three months will be allotted several months ago, DLSU-D Senior High modifying the academic calendar and for the) first term. (This will close with the) School (SHS) Principal Marlon Pareja class schedules in order to comply with the major exams, (followed by the) self-care proclaimed their anticipation in implementing said modality. week...(before proceeding) with the next a blended learning modality for the upcoming term...(and ending with a) semestral break,” academic year. “(For) the incoming school year…(the Pareja assured. schedule of classes would be) [three] days na face-to-face class and [two] days na online Consequently, Pareja guaranteed that classes,” he remarked. different assessments such as the formative, discourse, and summative will depend on the Moreover, he confirmed that they will still subject teacher’s strategy for their class. divide the semesters into two terms to help students cope with their strands’ workload. Blended modality, see page 2 USAID grants DLSU-D OSYs tech training project Aya Ahmad In collaboration with Kuya Center for Street Children, DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) secured a one-year financial grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Opportunity 2.0 for their submission among hundreds of entries nationwide. Moving Forward. Blinded by the sight of a new start, yet According to DLSU-D SHS Consequently, he affirmed that forty street still pushing to see it through. Art by Rianne Nicole Ocampo Principal Marlon Pareja, they proposed children aged sixteen years old and below ‘The Bridging the IT Gap (BIG) will be the prospective beneficiaries who Brother Project’ for USAID’s nearest would later be certified by taking the Cisco priority area in Cubao for Out-of-School examinations after the program. Youth (OSYs). “[I]n case gusto na nilang magtrabaho, “[‘Y]ong primary focus (ng The BIG mayroon (na silang competencies)... Brother project)...(is) to increase the (that would provide) opportunities…to [Information Technology] competency significantly contribute to the digital economy of OSYs through developmental training (and) help their communities,” he expressed. sessions,” he said. USAID, see page 2 4 Editorial 8 Green Ink 9 Literary BS Un(org)anized Tercets of Thoughts

2 La Estrella Verde NEWS March - July 2022 Furthermore, Gatdula mentioned that he is Blended modality, see page 1 “[T]he best scenario (is that by August, looking forward to utilizing the University’s the whole class will be able to go onsite), pero facilities and services regardless of the possible “[F]or each topic, (pwedeng) magbigay we’re also prepared for the worst, which is full necessary adjustments. (‘yong teacher) ng mini assessments (online) online. [M]amimili na lang ang student (if ) “(The) blended learning [modality] will just to check (if the students learned the gusto niya (bang modality is) full online...o help me learn better...(despite attending lesson). After no’n, there will be a major exam doon na sa new normal,” he stressed. almost) three years of...online classes...(since) (covering all) the...topics na (na-discuss)... Students’ feedback I am more accustomed to (a face-to-face that will be done onsite,” he said. setup),” he shared. With the gradual onsite activities Meanwhile, Cedee Anne Beatriz Abesamis Additionally, Pareja asserted that they would that the University has been conducting (HMS11) disclosed her concerns regarding the allot a schedule where students have a chance recently, Gabriel Francis Gatdula (STM11) alterations that will occur once the University to work on their extracurricular activities in acknowledged the institution’s readiness to implements this approach given how difficult their respective student organizations. welcome its students. it was to learn in an online setup. “(Once they conduct blended classes), “(It was proposed that) may oras (on “If (COVID-19) cases won’t rise (in the I’m sure na isa (sa mga malaking adjustment Wednesdays where)...magkikita sila (onsite following) months...(then) the University na mangyayari ay ‘yong pag-aaral), dahil iba for) organizations, general assemblies, or made the right move to hold face-to-face naman (‘yong) way ng (pag-aaral) sa [face-to- major activities sa klase,” he highlighted. classes next school year while still giving the face] and online learning,” she remarked. students their freedom to choose whether to Nonetheless, Pareja affirmed that the participate,” he commented. University is already preparing for several scenarios, including the prospect of employing hybrid flexible learning for those students who cannot attend their onsite classes. SC plans STEM rep search USAID, see page 1 once A.Y. 2022-2023 starts Moreover, Pareja shared that the COMELEC urges SC to issue the appointment immediately University’s ICT teachers will also Saira Vanessa Varon partake in the project by honing the children’s expertise and familiarity with In line with DLSU-D Commission on Election’s (COMELEC) recommendation computer navigation. to designate the STEM representative’s vacant position ahead of time, the Student Council (SC) disclosed that they will seek for its suitable candidate once “[M]alaking challenge ‘yon...(kung) the academic year commences. pa’no natin ma-re-raise ‘yong competencies nila. [K]ung (magiging) successful According to SC Vice President-elect withdrawal posed an urgency for the newly ‘yon...malaking bagay ‘yon for the Rizz Gopez, their plan to appoint a student proclaimed officers to resolve this setback teachers...(to develop) their skills,” for the said role was set aside due to their before finalizing their projects. he asserted. prior commitments. “I think...they should be able to find Additionally, he mentioned that the “[S]ince we are currently brewing a thing someone...before (preparing) the calendar of institution is currently preparing for the or two right now...ang plan namin ay isabay activities...(para) complete na silang lahat... launch of the said project that will highlight (‘yong) paghahanap sa mismong start na (but) we will not (allow) the same student who their formal partnership with Kuya Center for ng (academic) year...[s]ame with (noong) backed out for that position to be appointed Street Children. nangyari sa ICT (representative) last [year],” (again),” Morales emphasized. he remarked. “[W]e want [them] to be (our) Furthermore, Morales recalled from partner institution, hindi lang (para) sa As a result, he revealed that STEM students the former ICT representative’s case mga teachers pero pati na rin sa mga could directly raise their concerns to them that their failure to provide any concrete estudyante. [A]s we progress with the as they would temporarily perform the countermeasures led the previous batch of program, (ito ay) magiging exposure sa ating responsibilities of their representative. SC to initiate the search themselves for the mga...student organizations...to conduct representative’s replacement. their joint activities for community service,” “[H]abang pinaplantsa pa namin (‘yong Pareja stressed. preparations) for the (application of a) STEM “[I]f ever the same case will occur again, (representative)...we (plan) to reach out sa the (SC) officers’ adviser shall be the one With this, Pareja disclosed that this financial [G]rade 11 (in the opening of ) classes,” to spearhead the appointment (or to fill) in grant is not exclusive solely within the Gopez affirmed. the vacant position. The only responsibility University, as USAID also targeted funding we have as...COMELEC is to assess the… various non-governmental organizations in Meanwhile, COMELEC Chairperson and (candidates’) submitted (requirements),” the country. Multimedia Head Jann Brent Morales stated he affirmed. that the presumed STEM representative’s “[I]f USAID think na we need to continue the project na...mas malawakan...and they’re willing to fund the project or...replicate the project in other places...definitely mag-sa-submit ulit tayo ng proposal,” he emphasized. Furthermore, he attested that this partnership has multiple benefits that can result to other competencies once it concludes. “(The project) [b]enefits [K]uya [C]enter (for Street Children OSYs and) our [SHS] teachers. (It will also) [s]trengthen (our) partnership with (them which may result in) more grants in the future,” Pareja remarked.

March - July 2022 NEWS 3La Estrella Verde Onsite activities, inaasahang madadagdagan SC nangako ng maayos na serbisyo Saira Vanessa Varon Ipinahayag ni DLSU-D Senior High School Student Council (SC) President Kyle Benzon ang plano ng kanilang organisasyong magsagawa ng mas maraming face-to-face activities at mga platapormang tutugon sa Lasalyanong komunidad. Matapos mahalal, ibinahagi ni Benzon kasagutan sa mga katanungan ng “[H]alos lahat ng tumakbo para sa SC na sisimulan nila ang akademikong taon sa mga estudyante. (ay) confident. [A]nd if titignan mo (‘yong paglulunsad ng kanilang mga plataporma na credentials ng) mga candidates, lahat sila may gaganapin sa Agosto. “We want (the) [SOSA] to be conducted as past experiences na in leading,” paliwanag niya. early as possible since we don’t want naman “[W]e plan to start our...year with...our na paasahin (‘yong students) with the (prizes) Dagdag pa rito, inaasahan niya ang platforms...[s]ince we want to welcome all or anything na deserve nilang (ma-receive),” pagtupad ng SC sa kanilang mga ipinangako students, especially...(the) [G]rade 11, (to) their saad niya. noong nangangampanya pa lamang sila, new school and (give them) a memorable school kagaya ng pagbibigay ng mga cash prizes at year,” aniya. Bukod dito, ipinabatid ni SC Vice President premyo sa itinakdang oras. Rizz Gopez na kanila pang pagbubutihin Kaugnay nito, ginarantiya niya na sila ay ang Lasallian Student Committee “[S]ana matuloy (‘yong mga) events na gusto naghahanda na ng mga alternatibong plano sa pamamagitan ng pangangalap ng mga bago nila...(at) sana maging consistent sila (sa mga kung sakaling maudlot ang pagpapatupad na nitong kasapi. gusto nilang mangyari)...kasi (napansin) ko... isagawa ang kanilang programa onsite. sa last SC, (‘yong) mga prizes nila (‘di) pa (rin “[W]e are prepared to spread out...para mas naibibigay)...(hanggang) ngayon,” sabi ni Vigo. “(For instance), if performers are (involved) (ma-supervise) namin bawat areas na need... in these events, kahit sila (na lang ‘yong (ng) manpower talaga,” paliwanag niya. Samantala, iminungkahi naman ni Dwyn um-attend) ng onsite preparations and Puna ng mga estudyante Anthony Delos Reyes (ICT11) na ipagpatuloy execution, [t]hen…we can either broadcast it ng nahalal na SC ang pagkakaroon ng matibay live or pre-recorded,” dagdag ni Benzon. Kasunod ng proklamasyon sa mga opisyal, na relasyon sa Lasalyanong komunidad. inilahad ni Quintin Rei Vigo (STM16) ang Isinalaysay din ni Benzon na pinaplano kanyang lubos na pagtitiwala sa kakayahang “[I] think consistent naman sila…(in) nilang mangasiwa ng proyektong mamuno ng mga ito kahit na walang naging handling situations...but [I]...(expect them to be nagngangalang State of Student Affairs kalaban ang kanilang partido. consistently)...effective leaders and…dependable (SOSA) na naglalayong magbigay ng people (as well),” ani Delos Reyes. TVL Work Immersion umani ng iba’t ibang komento Naevien Riley Valenzuela Nakalikom ang inilunsad na TVL Work Immersion ng sari-saring suhestyon mula sa mga dumalong estudyante ukol sa kurikulum at connectivity issues na naging taliwas sa obserbasyon ni Work Immersion Chairperson John Christopher Pascual. Sa isang panayam, ibinahagi ni Pascual na “[I]nstead of giving quizzes, (I think) they wala silang malaking problema na naranasan should (have given) hands-on (activities) to (the) ngayong taon kahit na onsite ginanap ang students,” suhestiyon niya. work immersion ng TVL-HE at online naman para sa TVL-ICT. Samantala, ipinaliwanag naman ni Carylle “Although hindi…required na Guiman (ICT21) na maihahalintulad mag-participate (sa) onsite (work immersion ang nasabing programa sa isang tipikal na nila)...(dahil sa) iba’t ibang mga factors... class discussion. majority (naman ng mga estudyante) ay (naka-attend),” aniya. “Although it was still a bit lacking (in Inilahad din niya na mahusay na natamo lessons) and discussions…(the areas they) ng mga estudyante ang mga inaasahang [p]robably…(need to improve are giving) awtput kung saan nasubok ang kanilang mga more useful information and (giving) tasks… natutunan mula sa programa. (aligned with) the (subject),” ayon “[N]akuha ng mga students (‘yong) mga kay Guiman competencies…na dapat nilang makuha...as mandated...by the [Department of Education] Sa kabilang banda, idinaing ni (in) our syllabus and learning calendar,” saad Kristina Cassandra Pagador (TVL21) ni Pascual. na ang pagiging hybrid ng kanilang sistema ay naantala dahil sa Internet Puna ng mga estudyante connection ng mga estudyanteng hindi Changing Times. As change is the only factor constant. Para sa pagpapabuti ng work immersion, nakadalo onsite. Photo by Elisha Jezreel Ang isinalaysay ni Jessica Lai Singh (ICT21) “I think it was difficult for students who… na kinakailangan pang pag-ibayuhin ang (are) only watching through [Microsoft] pagbibigay ng mga gawain. Teams…(because) [t]hey were not graded properly during the demonstration (due to their) [slow] [I]nternet connection,” pagpapaliwanag niya.

4 La Estrella Verde OPINION March - July 2022 La Estrella Verde EDITORIAL The Official High School Student Publication of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas BS Un(org)anized EDITORIAL BOARD A.Y. 2021-2022 As the academic year finally concluded, students are now reflecting on how they have managed to survive the academic year while maintaining a healthy student life. Student life can be divided EDITOR IN CHIEF into two: curricular activities that focus on academics and extracurricular activities that hone the Franchez Cassandra Escander students’ potential outside of academics such as competitions, athletics, and student organizations. ASSOCIATE EDITOR Some might agree that a student should mainly focus on their academic performance. Yet, this Marymar Caya might not be true in some cases as students can be stretched thin when they have to do all of their commitments outside academics. With this, it is no surprise that you will hear some students MANAGING EDITOR experiencing burnout and then suddenly going AWOL as combining the burden of online classes Ma. Ladeevie Tamonan with the seemingly inefficient system for student organizations is like a disaster waiting to happen. COPY EDITOR Taking a higher position in just one student organization already equates to a heavier workload, Guen Marie Sapinit more so if they are also officers and members of other affiliations that bear the same magnitude of obligation. For some, the arduous task of being in these hierarchies curtailed their standards NEWS EDITOR in upholding their organization’s purpose as they found themselves choosing which they must Ayeesha Kimberly Cellona prioritize first, only to end up drafting letters of resignation. Although such students are inclined to be immersed in these enervating settings, consistency is as much of a necessity as willingness is SPORTS EDITOR in these pursuits. Guen Marie Sapinit FEATURES EDITOR Leadership is a duty entailing an immense amount of responsibility—this is a truth yet to be Ma. Ladeevie Tamonan realized by some. At first, being part of the officers of an organization might seem staggering because IN CHARGE, LITERARY of the admiration and recognition one might receive. But, as the work to accomplish continues to Ara Janine Palecpec be formidable, one’s reasons to become a leader should be beyond collecting honor and credentials to flaunt. Leading an organization is a commitment fueled by insurmountable perseverance, fervor, ART EDITOR and will to serve the community; not by self-interest and ego fulfillment. Denise Preclaro LAYOUT EDITOR One should also be reminded that a student organization should be headed, as the name states, Jan Anthony Murillo by students. Advisers were appointed to guide and help the students with their affairs but they IN CHARGE, PHOTO AND VIDEO should never interfere with the decision-making, as this could essentially shift the power to them. Elisha Jezreel Ang Doing this would question the intention of an organization in the first place, because why do we even bother to call it a student organization if it is just a front to delegate more work without WEB EDITOR giving them freedom? Joanna Elaine Desiderio RADIO PROGRAM MANAGER The inadequate manpower in various organizations and fleeting terms of their student leaders are just some of the sobering indications of an ineffective system that must be reformed. Marymar Caya Thus, these policies must prohibit students from being appointed as officers of more than one NEWS organization for them to weigh the responsibilities of the roles they are applying for, instead of renouncing their positions. Zoe Airabelle Aguinaldo, Aya Ahmad, Jane Llana Cordova, Tiffany Geluz, Hannah Sophia Perez, Princess Pravika Rai, To conclude, there have been various malignancies in the system of student organizations. However, some still regard it with total dissonance. From the hierarchy to the officers themselves, Mikaela Angela Reyes, Saira Vanessa Varon, conundrums seem to ensue. Hence, it is only right to finally commence a discussion of its flaws Naevien Riley Valenzuela before these problems attach themselves to the origins of the organizations. SPORTS Alyssa Ashley Anacay, Jane Llana Cordova, Naevien Riley Valenzuela FEATURES Jedd Rudolf Caldo, Francine Angela Dela Fuente, Kenan Christian Geda, Jelaigne Szanel Liong, Alexie Jeanne Masangkay, Anielle Mendoza, Jose Miguel Octavo, Hannah Sophia Perez LITERARY Marcea Alcala, Wrenzhie Arroyo, Pia Heart Lambuson, Paulyn Dianne Laude, Jelaigne Szanel Liong, Anina Jiliana Manuel, Aqeena Reyes, Phoebe Denise Santos, Bianca Jan Sibayan, Gabriel Dale Tejido, Frances Nicole Umbao ART Sean Jacob Altoveros, Jannbeau Amadeus Rain Astrero, Cecilia Nazarine Bicol, Zoe Olivia Cavinta, Jasmin Delos Reyes, Aiser Levi Duque, Maria Sophia Emelda Intorio, Klaire Niña Llarena, Rianne Nicole Ocampo, Rania Marie Pucan, Reanne Roguel, Liam Nico Sullivan PHOTO AND VIDEO Jethro David Dela Cerna, John Froilan Gacasa, Nicole Infante, Angienette Laurza, Bianca Jan Sibayan, Tricia Faye Velasco WEB Nikki Alexis Antonio, John Froilan Gacasa, Anina Jiliana Manuel, Jaymar Matanguihan Jr., Jeremy Ray Milca, Juliana Ellice Polancos, Reanne Roguel LAYOUT Nikki Alexis Antonio, Angienette Laurza, Jaymar Matanguihan Jr., Juliana Ellice Polancos RADIO Alyssa Ashley Anacay, Kenn Benedict Ballesteros, Denice Gabrielle Calingasan, Kristina Rose Eramiz, Einjela Esguerra, Lexter Nico Mahusay, Ezekiel Ben Meneses, Serge Angelo Quiambao, Brizza Felicity Reyes, Yzabelle Mei Robillo, Jasmine Marie Soriano ADVISER Dominic Benavente La Estrella Verde has its editorial office at Room JHS241, High School Complex, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, DBB-B, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4115 Telephone: +63-2-7795180, +32-46-4811900 to 1930 local 3302 Email: [email protected] FB: /DLSUDLaEstrellaVerde | Twitter & IG: @LeviofLEV Contributions, comments and suggestions should be addressed to the Editor in Chief and should bear the writer’s full name. Articles may be edited for clarity and space.

March - July 2022 OPINION 5La Estrella Verde Magpahayag ≠ Manlinlang Hustisya basehan na ang bawat bidyo at litratong na naratibo. At ngayong nasa ilalim muli minanipula ng kasinungalingan at may marka tayo ng mga lider na may nakapagdududang Guen Marie Sapinit ng eupemismo. Hudyat din ng malawak track records, hindi na dapat isaalang-alang nilang media reach ay ang dami ng kanilang M ga ilusyong may bahid ng kabulaanan tagasubaybay. Ngunit, sapat ba ang mga “ang katotohanan para lang sa ikalilinis ng ang patuloy na lumalantad simula batayang nabanggit para mapanghawakan noong naganap ang eleksyon hanggang nila ang tungkulin ng ganito kalaking kanilang reputasyon. ngayong may panibagong nanunungkulang responsibilidad? Kaugnay nito, papaano administrasyon. Kaliwa’t kanan na kasi ang natin masisigurado na sila’y may pananagutan Mayroon pa ring paglabas ng mga balitang nililinlang ang sa mga balighong impormasyong maaari linyang pinaghihiwalay madlang dahan-dahang kinakalimutan ang nilang maipalaganap? ang pagbibigay ng pinagkaiba ng mga mamamahayag at ng wastong impormasyon mga sinusuportahan nilang tanyag na mga Hindi man tiyak kung gumagalaw ba ang at ng entertainment.” pangalan sa mainstream media. Tila ang mga vloggers para sa pansarili o pampublikong nakasisilaw nilang kinang sa industriya ay interes, mas naging matimbang pa rin Ang pagpapadala sa tingkad at panunudyo tuluyan nang nabulag ang milyon-milyong ang kanilang mga sanaysay kaysa sa ng katanyagan ay pagsasawalang-bahala rin sa mata mula sa katotohanan. mga mamamahayag na nasubok na ang kung ano ang totoo at pagbibingi-bingihan kredibilidad. Kahit na kung tutuusin, ang sa hinaing ng mga biktima ng paniniil. Naging mas malabo pa ang kanilang pagitan pagbabalita ay isang masinsinang proseso Kakampi ng ignoransya ang opresyon, nang gawing prayoridad ang pagbibigay ng na hindi basta-basta ipinangangalandakan kaya nararapat lamang na kwestyunin akreditasyon sa mga naturang vloggers para ng walang katibayan. Sinusuyod din ng ang mga bagay na maaaring kumitil sa dumalo at i-cover ang mga press briefings ng mga mamamahayag nang maigi at walang katotohanan sa pag-usbong ng social media gobyerno. Isiniwalat din na magiging batayan pagkikiling ang kanilang istorya, salungat sa na punong-puno ng mga tiwali, hindi ang bilang ng kanilang engagements at followers mga vloggers na may bakas ng sariling opinyon lamang bilang isa ring mamamahayag, ngunit bago sila mapabilang sa “press”. Sa katunayan, at paniniwala. pati na rin bilang isang mamamayan. hindi lang ito ang unang rehimen kung saan nasubok ang depinisyon kung ano ba ang Batid kong may mga vloggers din na pagiging influencer at pagiging journalist. nais maglingkod sa bayan, ngunit hindi ibig sabihin nito na pareho na iisa na ang Dahil nga naipinta sila bilang bagong mga kanilang layunin—mayroon pa ring linyang batis ng impormasyon, kadalasang nagiging pinaghihiwalay ang pagbibigay ng wastong impormasyon at ng entertainment. Hindi na bago ang pagkalat ng mga baluktot (Pretentious) Act 10931 Exulansis instability, acquiring scholarships became their desired courses. If these conditions do doubtful since they had to work at an early not compromise them, what qualifications do Ayeesha Kimberly Cellona age affecting their academic performance they demand? because of their divided attention. N umerous officials continually exploit Under these conditions, we should dismiss vulnerable sectors, specifically indigents, If those who roll in money still accumulate the societal standard where well-known whenever they eye for government positions. scholarships from several organizations and universities are the only ones equipped for The previous administration sanctioned free divisions—which supposedly are for the high-quality education because they mandated tuition, and the other fees in State Universities underprivileged—then it further certifies their inscription from the same government and Colleges (SUCs) exempting those that most beneficiaries of these concessions institution to provide the same quality, which financially deprived to provide an opportunity will only vary on the educators’ capacity. to pursue college degrees. Despite its aim to “are not reaching families who need assistance solve poverty, it was an undoubtedly ridiculous Once and for all, they should set law, as it did not execute its intention properly from the government. opportunities equally regardless of any due to social stratification. circumstances. A simple way of assessing Once and for all, they realistic standards—whether in a job or school The government-funded SUCs through should set opportunities application—would assist specifically those taxes, and it became the means for students equally regardless of any cash-strapped families. If the government to regard an institution that provides free circumstances.” does not take action on these issues, the college tuition as a university that imparts a poverty rate will continually increase despite “high-quality” education. However, it does On top of that, I often assume SUCs— multiple administrations’ promises to not aid financially struggling families since particularly the prominent ones—require provide solutions. even the wealthy can obtain its benefits, students with good grades and pleasing which unquestionably disregards their credentials. Yet, some students who achieved After all, these standards made SUCs in original intention. numerous recognitions and joined various demand, and deficient criteria render personal organizations with great effort still failed questions about where an individual should As more deprived left with a highly to get admitted to their dream schools with stand. The government should ponder that doubtful application for college admissions education should not depend on the families’ due to failing primary education and financial wealth. In promoting amiable education, a law should exist to establish its society as a more suitable place to live and create progress—not the other way around.

6 La Estrella Verde OPINION March - July 2022 ‘Yaan mo na From the pagbubuntis dahil sa nilathalang patakaran ng nararapat lang na mabigyang-laya ang mga Fossils hukuman. Kung iisipin, hindi ba’t tungkulin itong pagkalooban ng ligtas na proseso ng pagpapalaglag. Hindi makatarungang ipasan Stephanie Nicole Rabacal “nitong protektahan ang buhay at karapatan sa balikat nila ang obligasyong unang una sa lahat ay hindi kanila. M insan na rin akong nasa panig nila. ng bawat mamamayan? Nakasuklob sa mga kaisipang hinubog Kung kaya’t hindi dapat natatapos sa ng aking kinalakihan, nagmaang-maangan Hindi dapat natatapos sa relihiyon o pansariling opinyon ang pagkilala sa kung ano talaga ang tama sa ngalan ng relihiyon o pansariling sa aborsyon. Ang kawalan ng kakayahang paniniwala at paninindigan—kahit pa buhay opinyon ang pagkilala bumuhay ng isang sanggol, mapa-pisikal, ng kababaihang tulad ko ang nakataya. sa aborsyon.” pinansyal, o anumang aspeto, ay ilan sa Ngunit sa lakbay kasabay ng panahon, unti- maraming patunay kung bakit nararapat unting kong nakilala ang reyalidad sa likod Pinagkalooban ang bawat tao ng karapatan itong ipaloob sa batas. Hindi ito nalilimita ng salitang aborsyon. Narito ako nakatayo, upang magpasya para sa sariling katawan at sa bansang Estados Unidos, kundi maging sa sumasalungat sa minsan nang naging kalusugan, may karamdaman man o wala. Sa buong mundo. Matagal nang ipinagdamot ng paniniwala ko. puntong ito pa lamang, maaari nang tapusin ang kapangyarihan ng mga nagdadalantaong ang mahabang diskusyon. Mayroon namang makabuo ng desisyong hindi lang para sarili, Mainit na usapan ngayon ang kasong mga sitwasyon na hindi pa handa ang mga ngunit pati sa maaaring maging kinabukasan Roe v. Wade matapos ipawalang-bisa ng Korte nagbubuntis sa naghihintay na malaking ng isisilang. Suprema ng Estados Unidos noong Hunyo pagbabago sa kanilang pamumuhay. Ang 24. Ito ang kasong nagsimulang kumilala kakulangan ng suportang pinansyal ang Isa lang ang aborsyon sa mga isyung hindi sa aborsyon bilang ligal sa nasabing bansa. isa sa kadalasang dahilan kung bakit sila man sumasalamin sa ating ideolohiya, ngunit Hatid ng desisyong nagpawalang-saysay rito dumudulog sa aborsyon. kinakailangan ng iba. Ang pagpapaligal nito na tinuldukan ng 6-3 na boto ang pagturing ay hindi katumbas ng pagsasagawa natin sa proseso ng ligtas na pagpapalaglag bilang Bilang karagdagan, hindi maikakaila ang ng naturang proseso, datapwat pagbibigay isang krimen. laganap na kaso ng panggagahasa, karahasan, kalayaan sa mga kababaihan na lumikha pagdadalantao ng mga menor de edad, ng desisyon at iligtas ang buhay nito Sa hindi na mabilang na pagkakataon, at hindi pagbibigay ng pananagutan ng mula sa isang malaking responsibilidad na muling napagkaitan ng pansariling karapatan kinakasama. Sa ganitong klaseng kaganapan, hindi pa kayang panindigan. Marahil ang kababaihan. Nabuwag ang magandang ay salungat sa kung ano ang ating oportunidad na baguhin ang landas ng pinaniniwalaan, hayaan natin ang kababaihan sinumang hindi ninais ang kanilang na—sa wakas—ang kanilang sarili ay maprotektahan. Mirage A glance at tomorrow Elisha Jezreel Ang Joanna Elaine Desiderio Jan Anthony Murillo

March - July 2022 FEATURES 7La Estrella Verde Through the unbeknownst stations of mundanity Ma. Ladeevie Tamonan Art by Aiser Levi Duque Encompassing a compendium of varied prowess and a plethora of passion is grace as regarded by many. Streaks of eternal sunshine are to be expected, and a glistening tomorrow is promised to them, nevertheless, beneath these construed reveries are lingering shadows that keep on getting darker as one hops on the train to the real world. The train departs more open opportunities in many aspects,” pressure as his family will always question the One is expected to tread carefully in Gaddiele Macasaet (ABM22) shared. Truly, passions he had failed to replenish. having the qualities of a jack-of-all-trades and the voyage wherein life’s turning points a master of none indeed introduces thresholds Moreover, for Morta, possessing too will transpire. But even with a painstaking many skills and not having the ability to preparation, the voyager might find out that it “that can lead to numerous paths. excel in a particular talent is also a bane he will not suffice and that all the things they had had to bear—because of it choosing a career smithed are still scarce upon commencing the [W]e should thrive became arduous. “I chose the passion at ride. Even with dozens of skills, the jack-of- more for the best, first, but I don’t really know what I’m most all-trades’ lacking will eventually materialize. dahil para (rin) ito passionate about. I went from being a painter, “[Jack-of-all-trades] is always in the middle or sa improvement ng photographer, dancer, musician, actor, (and) average,” Jamie Morta (HMS11) said. ating sarili.” director,” he discussed. Having too many doors might really be a drawback, especially Although they are equipped with heaps of Across the perilous railroad if one’s heart is still unsure of what it desires. talents, improvement is one of their sworn Yet, the paradisiacal sense is fleeting and foes. “It (is) really hard to master a skill when *** you’re busy mastering other skills at the same will soon evaporate as the train moves forward The escapade to the harsh and actual world time,” Morta explained. With this, many are to the ominous destination. “[T]hey can be is an inherent ordeal that one shall conquer stuck at the average level, perceiving them as (outcasted) and (have) a less chance to stand even with inadequate ability. “I think it may mundane as they traverse through life. out,” Macasaet answered when asked what be hard, but if a person with an average skill Along the reveled landscapes conundrums she had encountered as someone has a willingness to be open in gaining new who once endured mediocrity. skills and knowledge, it can be possible,” As the train continues to navigate the Macasaet conveyed. “[T]here’s plenty of time rails to realities, marvels might enchant the “The disadvantages are not being good to improve, (hindi) naman gagaling ang skills traveler—that even though the journey is at everything, sometimes being stuck at the overnight, kaya nga tinawag na skill, kasi pina- marred because of one’s normalcy, they would (mediocre) stage and not improving,” Morta practice,” Morta asserted. still perceive the venture as a worthwhile said. He also narrated how he experienced No matter how sky-scraping the railroad is, one. “The advantage of being a jack-of-all- one shall keep the embers of hope alive and trades is that I’m always busy and (almost kindle their faith to themselves, for choosing never) bored because I have a lot of hobbies,” to step out of their comfort zones is something Morta expressed. that will soon pave the path to triumph. “[W]e should thrive more for the best, dahil “I have plenty of knowledge of all the areas para (rin) ito sa improvement ng ating sarili,” I’m practicing. And it’s fun because I’m not Macasaet emphasized. always stuck on one thing,” Morta added. “Being a jack-of-all-trades (means having)

A GRADUATE’S RESILIENCY by Jasmin Delos Reyes I’M MALaMriaOSSoTpThHiaEREmE…elda Initorio by BANYUHAY by Klaire Niña Llarena HULING SAYAW by Rania Marie Pucan Moving Out by Aya Ahmad As Levi prepares to leave for college, they appear to have underestimated the amount of packing to be done. Could you spot 5 differences to help them organize their dorm necessities? ANSWERS: Ball, Mirror’s reflection, Popsicle Sticker, Teddy Bear’s Bowtie , and the Flower’s Leaf.

March - July 2022 LITERARY 9La Estrella Verde TERCETS OF THOUGHTS monotonous summer “Kiss it better” spring Wrenzhie Arroyo Anina Jiliana Manuel Aqeena Reyes scorching hot wind blows, Warmth flows through the cracks commitment towards I lie in bed, wondering— the passionate blazing dream In my eyes, the cold seeps in full of blooming themes where did the sparks go? Mind lost by the tracks lunares unconventional Old-fashioned Bianca Jan Sibayan Wrenzhie Arroyo Anina Jiliana Manuel they say someone’s on the moon in a world defined by blue and pink, Crevices on her greying skin they may be freezing in the darkest tombs I longed to choose my colors and hue. Terribly soulless, deeply scared within or may they uncover secrets deep within out of the closet, looking all brand-new. Like walking in fragile ice, hair-thin semblance at sea falter butterfly wings Bianca Jan Sibayan Pia Heart Lambuson Ara Janine Palecpec sailing adrift the vast vigor sea reaching over the cliff a luster hovers where petals churn to seafoam his hand melts her endless grudge— dull sailors tell no tales of teal she trusts him too late and dangles into thin sky **side note: this is a palindrome poem, then poofs in twinkle you can read it top to bottom and vice-versa polished pink in her cheeks Serenade Pia Heart Lambuson the mirror lies as often as it would blame, Ara Janine Palecpec Gabriel Dale Tejido gazing into the countless it has betrayed If Marceline’s red dulled, In sanguine aubade, as self and reflection judges their thin frame it will not turn into gray— there sings a solemn adieu, to our merry end. Women just pink. Glimpse Paulyn Dianne Laude quarantine Getting our way through Gabriel Dale Tejido Dismantling patriarchy Aqeena Reyes Every hardship shows, prohibition stays what flower you bloom into, How hard must it be? longer more than you notice you just have to wait. as we are consumed Sa pakikibaka Paulyn Dianne Laude Tayo’y tumindig Maging mapagpalaya ‘Wag pasisiil

March - July 2022 SportsLa Estrella Verde Volume 6 Issue 3 Breakthrough upon breakthrough. In every step, there is progress even if the world is full of sorrow. Photo by Elisha Jezreel Ang The tension of fractured reveries Guen Marie Sapinit and Alyssa Ashley Anacay When it all ended with a scorching halt, those who stumbled fragmented themselves away from the identity that ablazes their vigor. Hapless as it may seem, these athletes are yet to wrangle not against opposing adversaries, but against themselves. However, to trounce the unknown, they must slowly mend what is left during the fallout. Phase One: Strain However, the ephemeral awe from these asked what his endeavors would be once As Swimmer Sebastian Montalvo’s avocations cannot replace the thrill of rivalry the upheaval dwindles. “It doesn’t matter for Maata. “I tried to immerse (myself ) in if it’s (a) slow progress. [S]mall progress is sunken despair quelled the raging waves, he online gaming to feed my (competitiveness), (still) progress.” mentioned that he is still yearning to reclaim but it didn’t really help me cope (that) much,” his sanctuary and to revive his zeal. “I’ve been he noted. Still, the temporary solace somehow “[T]here (are) no other (options).” longing (to train and to feel) being an athlete healed the twinge of despair that waned the Perhaps, the recovery from the pandemonium once again, (but) [i]t was challenging because nudged these athletes to realize what they of the prolonged pandemic,” he remarked. “euphoria of prevailing. are really passionate about. “[Playing badminton] is my life, and [I] will keep Amid the rift that immobilized these [L]et these challenges pursuing my dreams one way or another,” athletes, a surge of doubt and dismay seeped be bridges to new Maata emphasized. into the crevices of what was once hope. “The opportunities, hardest part was swallowing the fact that not barriers.” *** [I] lost my chance to play in the regionals, Through mending the shattered remnants knowing (that I’ve) worked hard year after Phase Three: Recovery and looking for a newfound hope, these year to earn my spot,” Badminton Player For some, the fractures and windings athletes are now conditioned to attest their Immanuel Maata expressed. avidity despite the unpredictable odds. As Phase Two: Treatment were never hindrances towards their end Volleyball Player Wynchell Magnaye advised, goal. “I want to start over despite what “[A]lways remember who you were when “[K]ung wala kang [discipline], happened,” Montalvo mentioned when you started and why you started. [L]et these mapapabayaan mo ‘yung sarili mo.” For challenges be bridges to new opportunities, Volleyball Player Nikki Alcartado, the remedy not barriers.” must start within oneself. After rekindling Hapless as it may seem, these athletes are with such ardors, Alcartado then found already on the verge of winning when they resolution from productivity. “I tried different find themselves trying and striving to regain activities like jumping rope. (I also continued) their fervor and dedication. my passion (for) dancing,” she shared.