Loneliness

l(a

le

af

fa

ll

s)one

l

iness

ee cummings

When I first read this poem of Mr. Edward Estlin Cummings, I was shocked because I could not believe that a poem can be written that way. And it is really a short poem. It only contains 22 characters. Amazing right? And letting us interpret this kind of poem is really a challenge for me. This was the first time I'd seen that the form/structure of words, not just their syntax and semantics and implication and context, but their physical form, could have meaning and implication and provide context.

As what I have observed, the entire poem looks like a numeral 1. The initial el ("l") in lonliness is replaced by a numeral one ("1"). The substring "one" in loneliness is made to stand out as is the second el (which has already been established as interchangable with the numeral). And finally there is 'iness'. Oneness or "I-ness". All those ones could be "I", ego, self.
The poem is like a collection of meaningless syllables. When written horizontally, it can be read as “l(a leaf falls)oneliness.” Now the poem can be understood as “a leaf falls in or between loneliness.” The poem’s structure and syntax show the epitome of solitude and separation. The many “ones” in the poem support this idea.

The first character is a one, being that on a typewriter, “1” and “l” show up as the same symbol. The second letter of the poem, “a,” is not only the first letter of the alphabet, but is a singular indefinite article with the meaning “one.”

According to a prestigious analyzer named Jacques Derrida, came to the simple conclusion that since all the words in the poem can be decomposed, there are no more words. The “I” can be seen as another “one,” making “one-ness. Line six is a single letter, and lines seven and eight are also “ones. ” These are opposing statements, with loneliness as abstract concept and the falling leaf as a concrete action. ” The last line, “iness,” or “i-ness,” can also be seen as “I-ness,” because Cummings is known to purposely leave an “I” un-capitalized. la,” shows a French singular definite article, similar to “the” in English. The very word “loneliness” and phrase “a leaf falls” have been separated; no longer a group of letters joined together to form words, individual letters stand comparatively alone.

Love: An Act Of Will, Not Of The Heart

What is LOVE? Some say love is….


1. A deep, tender, ineffable feeling of affection and solicitude toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness.

2. A feeling of intense desire and attraction toward a person with whom one is disposed to make a pair; the emotion of sex and romance.

3. An intense emotional attachment, as for a pet or treasured object.

4. A person who is the object of deep or intense affection or attraction; beloved. Often used as a term of endearment.

5. An expression of one's affection.

When it comes to love, people cannot give a consistent answer if you ask him or her what does love really means. All I can say is love truly is indescribable.

They say love is an act of will, not of the heart. Do you believe in that? Part of me believes on the statement. Why? It is because when you love, our heart does not work alone. It needs our mind for us to enable to feel love. When you love a person, you look at his or her different sides. And before loving him or her, your mind is in deciding process if he or she is deserving of your love. After you have realized that he or she deserves on your love, there is now the will of loving.

I think that when you love, you really have to prove to him or her that you are sincere. We should do something to show to that someone or person how great our love is. Loving someone must be your will, and not merely because your heart says so. We cannot show how we deeply love that somebody if we are not going to show it. Love should be shown in the acts that we do and not up to words only. In short, it is not the heart that loves but the willingness within you. The willingness of our minds is done in order for us to love.

The Look

The Look
Strephon kissed me in the spring,

Robin in the fall,

But Colin only looked at meA

nd never kissed at all.
Strephon's kiss was lost in jest,

Robin's lost in play,

But the kiss in Colin's eyes

Haunts me night and day.
-- Sara Teasdale

The Look is a poem written by Sara Teasdale. It is about a woman who fell in love with Stephon, Robin and Colin. And with just a look from one of them, she was haunted all day. Why I came up with such a conclusion? I will explain to you what the poem is all about. …

In the first stanza, it shows how the speaker fell in love thrice. First was with Stephon, then with Robin and lastly with Colin. Stephon and Robin kissed the speaker while Colin did not. He just looked at her and never kissed at all.

“Strephon's kiss was lost in jest,Robin's lost in play”. I think this line means that a kiss can be one of those things that can be remembered but as time goes by, it will be erased little by little especially when the kiss was just for fun and lust. Kiss can never leave atrace in our hearts if we cannot feel sincerity of the person who gave the kiss.

But the kiss in Colin's eyesHaunts me night and day. It means that Colin look was really something for the speaker. She was indeed captured by how Colin looked at her.

The poem tells us that the eyes are the windows of our heart. The sinceruty of a person cn be seen through his or her eyes. Eyes sees the person in and out. The poem also differentiates a kiss from a look. That a look can capture moments of our lives and how it leaves a mark in our hearts in amy ways.

Sara Teasdale’s poem tells us how a look can struck our heart. Because of just alook, one may not be able to sleep well because of too much thinking of what the person really means. If that look may mean something really deep or not.

I think that would be all.

KYSD 2007

The University of the Philippines High School has this unique activity or program wherein the students would substitute the teachers, faculty, and staff in their won respective responsibilities for 3 days. We call it Know Your School Day more popularly known as KYSD. KYSD is also the time when our teachers get some rest from all those lesson plans. I think KYSD is one of the most awaited events of students, faculty, as well as the staff. It is fun to see my fellow students doing the jobs of a principal, assistant principal, PED chairperson, clerk, guidance counselor and teachers.

Since in my first year stay in UP High, I never tried teaching because I have always experienced on being taught by students. I did not care to apply because I doubt on my capabilities. And also, I do not want to be pressured with the big responsibility tasked on me. Just imagine yourself that you need to teach well for your classmates to let them really learn and understand the lesson. I did not have regrets being just student instead of a student teacher because I also had fun.

Being taught by students has always been fun and exciting experience for me. I enjoyed watching and listening to my classmates who were then my teachers. I find it cute seeing them as our teachers. And also, I was not afraid to participate in class discussion because I just thought of that they were still my classmates. I really admire my classmates who applied for a certain position because they were truly brave enough to face such challenge. The nice thing is that I surely did learn something from them. I was amazed with my classmate teachers because they were able to find ways and teaching techniques, which did not make us bored.

I was just happy of being a student because I do not have to worry on something. Even if I cannot have extra points for just being a student, it was just fine for me. What’s important is that I learned, enjoy and had fun.
The KYSD 2007 was indeed a success. The students enjoyed as well as the faculty and staff. This was one of the memorable events that happened in UP High.

Encantadia Mania

GMA Kapuso network has produced one of the finest telefantasya series in the Philippine television. It was able to capture the hearts of almost Filipino people. It depicts on the story of family, friendship, and love.

The story happened in the world of Encantadia….

Encantadia was divided into four kingdoms: Adamya, Sapiro, Lireo and Hathoria.

Adamya is situated in the Southern tip of Encantadia. It is the home of the little people. These small yet intelligent people are called Adamians and are the keepers of the Jewel of Water. The kingdom is headed by Imaw, a wise and faithful ruler, who possesses a staff that enables him to look into the past of a particular person.

On the North of Encantadia is the King of Sapiro. It is the land of valiant, shrewd and cunning warriors, the Sapirians. This kingdom is the original keeper of the Jewel of Earth, the land blessed with precious metals and stones. The Sapirians are similar to the Diwatas , they can also teleport themselves to another place. They also have the ability to heal itself or others of a disease or any kinds of wounds. The Sapirians are best known for their unmatched skills in both swordsmanship and sword fighting. Armeo was the former King of Sapiro and the father of Ybrahim. The cousin of Armeo and the father of Amihan, Prince Raquim, taught Ybarro a.k.a. Ybrahim how to fight better and stronger.

The land of the encantados and diwatas is the Kingdom of Lireo, bounded in the East. This Kingdom is the Keeper of the Jewel of Air. Sang’gres (members of the royal family in Lireo) has the ability to teleport. Lirean society is matriarchal, meaning that women carry higher civil status than their male counterparts. The Queen of the Diwatas carries the title of “Ynang Reyna”. Minea is the mother of the four Keepers of Jewels namely Pirena (fire), Amihan(wind), Alena(water) and Danaya(earth). Pirena is the smartest among the four Sang’gres for she is expert in planning. Amihan is actually not a pureblooded Diwata because she is ½ Diwata like her mother and ½ Sapirian like her father. Alena’s voice possesses a magical power to love, soothe, kill and even hypnotize. Danaya is the youngest of the four Sang’gres. Though the youngest, she is the most fearless and level-headed among the Sang’gres. Each Sang’gres has a twin spirit guide. Alipato for Pirena, Aqua for Alena, Avilan for Amihan and Aure for Danaya.

On the Western border is the Kingdom of Hathoria. It is where the militaristic, vicious and power-famished Hathors abound. It is the home of dangerous beings, bounded by treacherous terrains and caverns. Hathors are known throughout Encantadia for their prowess in battle and superior knowledge in the arts of war. Hagorn is the King of the Hathors.

Encantadia has its own heaven, hell and as well as a purgatory. Devas is considered the heaven of Encantadia, and also the home of Bathala. Limbo is the place between the Encantadia and Devas. It is a floating island guarded by a black dragon named Arde. Balaak is considered hell of the Diwatas.

The story didn’t revolve only in the world of Encantadia but also in the human world as well. It can be found outside the dimension of Encantadia and the portal between the two worlds is the Tree of Asnamon.

KOREANOVELA CRAZE!!! (Part 2 of 2)

continuation…..

As a last ditch of attempt to get Luigi to stay away from Jessie, Justine tried to induce Luigi that Jessie was pregnant. But it didn’t work out well. Luigi had then found out that Justine’s marriage with Jessie was not true at all!

The next turning point was when Justine wanted to make up for being so cruel to Jessie. He invited her out for a dinner. Before Justine had reached the place, he got a call from Lorraine and decided to go to her instead. That night, he was not able to return home. Jessie waited for him the whole night long. Justine arrived that morning not knowing that he had broke Jessie’s heart for what he had done. Jessie ran away only to be found by Luigi in the pouring rain.

Jessie got sick again and by this point in time, it was Luigi who took care of her. Luigi, being a good friend, called Justine and told him what has happened and warned him that if he will still treat Jessie unkindly, he will take Jessie away from him for good. At this moment in time, it was like a tug-of-war love between the four of them. Jessie likes Justine, Justine doesn’t know who he likes, Lorraine now likes Justine but still wants Luigi and Luigi likes Jessie. But when Jessie was forced to make a choice, she decided to ask Justine for a divorce because she doesn’t want to get hurt anymore.

Then, Jessie found out that Justine’s acting career was going down because of all the scandals about him. Justine’s manager told Jessie to stay with him for the mean time to save his career. Justine decided that he wanted to take care of Jessie. But suddenly, another turn of events made him change his mind and decided to go back to Lorraine.

Yet, Jessie still refused to give up on Justine. To stop Jessie from getting hurt, Justine pretended to treat her like dirt so that she will lose hope of him. Because of that, Jessie decided to go with Luigi to Venice to counter Justine’s bad treatment. Hearing the news, Justine got sad but he didn’t want to tell her about what he feels. Brought by his sadness, he even mistakenly addressed Jessie’s name to Lorraine. Lorraine then realized that Justine was really in love with Jessie. At the very last minute, Jessie chose not to go with Luigi after all. Luigi opted not to go either and took Jessie back home.

Another scandal took place. This time, it was that Jessie married Justine for money. Justine scheduled a press conference to clear things up. He told everyone that he was giving Jessie a divorce because of a girl he loved. After which, Justine went to the mountains to become a novice monk. He went there to have a peace of mind. Everyone wanted Justine to come back down from the mountain so they used all kinds of excuses. What finally made Justine go down was when he was told that Jessie got sick. This was the only thing that made him change his mind.

Obviously, they definitely like each other. Justine finally summoned enough courage to tell Jessie how he truly feels, that he is very much in love with her. And so, it was like any other fairy tale, a happily ever after kind of ending.

Whew! What a story...Heheh! I really like this Korean drama because of the story itself. It made me feel “kilig” with all their fights and sweetness. It was a one-of-a-kind series. Full House was and will always be the best – A MUST SEE KOREANOVELA!

KOREANOVELA CRAZE!!! (Part 1 of 2)

Nowadays, Koreanovelas are all over the country. Even the two giant television networks in the Philippines are competing for the attention of the public by the use of Koreanovelas. Both networks are showing top-rated Korean drama series. One Korean drama series that struck my heart is the Full House...

Full House is starred by Korea’s finest, Song Hye Kyo and Jeong Ji-hoon. This series is about a girl who has lived in the house built by her father, Jessie (Song Hye Kyo) and a famous actor, Justine Lee (Jeong Ji-hoon/Rain). One day, Jessie went on a trip to China and met Justine on the plane. Series of incidents between them on the plane caused Justine to despise Jessie. They also stayed in the same hotel. When Jessie tries to check-in to the hotel, she met Luigi, Justine’s long time friend. After sometime in china, Jessie found out that she had no money left. She couldn’t find anyone she knew except for Justine. She then decided to seek the help of Justine. Justine wanted nothing to do with her until he found out that Jessie knew Luigi. When Jessie came back to Korea, she found out that her two “best friends” had sold her house. The worst part was that the house she truly treasured was bought by Justine!

Problems started to arise when Jessie refuses to leave because she believes that the house was still rightfully hers. Justine kicked her out of the house. Being a determined person, Jessie sleeps outside the house. Justine found her sick, lying in front of the house the next day, took her in and looked after her until she got better. Justine then made a deal with Jessie that she has to work as his house keeper to pay off the debts she owed him.

In Justine’s perspective, he found out that “the one he love” which he had a crush on since 9 years old, Lorraine, was about to leave for New York to study. He decided to propose to her. But, Lorraine only liked him as a friend, instead she likes Luigi. On the night of the proposal, Justine got everything set but Lorraine chose to leave when she got a call from Luigi. Justine became heartbroken.

The next day, Justine attended a party and Jessie followed along. In the party, Luigi and Lorraine had a little argument. Luigi also told Lorraine that Justine likes her a lot. Because of what Luigi said, Lorraine confronted Justine. In the heat of rage, Justine pretended to confess his love for Jessie and kissed her. This news made headlines. Justine and Jessie then made a pact to have a contract marriage for six months whereby after that, they will divorce and Jessie will get a share of money and the Full House back. The next day, they announced their engagement and not too long, their marriage.

Subsequent to their marriage, Jessie and Justine went to Thailand for their honeymoon. There, they had a few moments together showing the softer side of Justine. When they got back, Justine taught Jessie how to ride the bike.

However, Jessie was still treated like a maid by Justine. After a while, Jessie managed to track down her two friends who stole her money. Her two friends, nevertheless, only had money on their mentality and after they had found out that Jessie’s marriage to Justine was just by contract, they threatened to divulge it to the press. Luckily, Jessie did manage to counter the threat by telling them that she would report it to the police that they had stole her money.

The first turning point of the story was when Lorraine got sick and was brought to the hospital. When Justine heard the news, he rushed in to the hospital. When he found her, he held her hand tightly. When Jessie saw it, she felt a small heartache and then she realized that she had fallen for Justine.

Jessie then decided to tell Justine that she likes him for real but took it as a shaggy dog story for the reason that Justine might just laugh on it. She didn’t dare say anything else to convince Justine. On the other hand, because of work, Jessie and Luigi always meet. Luigi confessed to Jessie that he is starting to like her and if she would give him a chance. Justine realized that he was jealous and didn’t want Luigi to be together with Jessie. Now, he tries to convince Jessie not to get along with Luigi anymore but Jessie didn’t mind him.
To be continued…..

The Amazing 64! (part 4, Tan)

Balolong, Eldee: (March 1) One of the most well informed student in class. He is always an honor student. He is sometimes teased as “penguin” because he acts like one when he runs. A man who hates free-riders! Heheh. Did you know that he likes skyscraper?!?

Caminade, Richard Rey: (July 22) Is the guy who loves the game soccer. He is indeed a good player on it. He was one of the players who made the Seniors won the championship in his sport. Chardy as others call him, is an intelligent student in Math.

Catubig, John Paul: JP for short. An award winning actor in the making! He won 2 awards as the Best Actor. One for the ABAKADA we had and the other one for the Dramafest. JP is also a good dancer. He is sometimes called “Don Romantiko”.

Enriquez, Byron Douglas: (December 9) He was my first boy friend! Oops! What I mean is, he was my first friend who’s a boy. He was one of the most well-informed students in our batch. He loves playing basketball and also the guitar. He was even the recipient of the Legacy of Music.

Esmero, Lorenz Gideon: He is the boy next door in our batch. But unfortunately, he’s not available anymore. He loves styling his hair—making some spikes out of it. Lorenz is indeed a gentleman. A very caring person, not just to his girl friend, but also to those dearest to him. His ambition in life is to become one of the All-Star players of National Basketball Association (NBA).

Esteban, Joseph Caesar Freinademetz: (October 1) He was a varsity player during his elementary years. And even in high school, he still continued his love in playing the sport which every Filipino also loves: basketball. Joseph is a witty person.

Gopinathan, Nathaniel: The ever responsible President of section Tan. Tany is very hard-working student. He is also a good leader to everybody. Tany is also a simple person.

Panares, Reniel: (January 23) The dream boy of our batch.Reniel sometimes sleeps during class hours. I don’t know why he’s always like that. He is also the fave student of Mdm. Mercado when it comes to lates and absences. Heheh.

Quilo, Janua: (January 3) The bisrock lover in our batch. He knows almost every bisrock songs. He is even a good guitarist. Sometimes I asked him to teach me the chords of this certain song.

Sagun, Nico Antonio: (June 13) He is the bookworm in our batch. He really loves reading books especially novels. Because of his love in reading, he is one of those who are well-informed. And also, he was chosen to be have the Legacy of Bibliophile. Nico is also a good companion not just to me but also to everybody.

Sumabong, Artsron: He is the “pasaway” among all my classmates. He even told me that if one day he will not violate a rule, he might get sick. But even if Artsron is like that, he is also a good friend to everybody. You just don’t know that this “pasaway” guy is very generous and caring.

Zamora, David Aielllo: (September 18) He is the other boy next door in our batch. But again, sad to say, this guy is already taken. Many girls admire him because he can serenade you with his skillful hands in playing the guitar. Together with Juna, he was also the recipient of the Legacy of Beauty.

The Amazing 64! (Part 3, Tan)

Alverio, Yolike: (December 27) Art is her passion. She likes designing things. All I can say is that she is very creative! She’s fun to be with. One of my close friends in school..

Amora, Mary Lyndel: (November 26) She has a unique voice! Heheh! It’s because she has soft voice and when she shouts, the volume of her shout is just like my normal voice. She loves cartoon and anime shows. She even collected OSTs of some of her fave anime. Lyndel is definitely an anime freak!

Bayani, Czarina: (December 1) She is considered the girl version of the famous Edgar Allan Poe. She likes writing. She is the Editor-in-Chief of Tambuli, UP’s school paper. A very responsible leader in the making.

De Erio, Jessa: (April 11) She is our very own “Dora: The Explorer”! Jah2x is one of my close friends in school. I really like delivering jokes on her because she will surely laugh. Her way of laughing is contagious.

Dichos, April Rhiz: (April 23) She is called by my classmates as “halap”. It’s true, Rhiz is a nearsighted person like me. She’s fun to be with. I like her company. We belong to the same group in the subject computer. Because of that, I had the chance to know her more. She was once the rival of my best friend when it comes to love life. But that was over now. Hehe! And lastly, Dichos is one of the honor students in our batch.

Enriquez, Sunshine: She’s not Byron’s sister, they only have same family names. Shiny is also a good actress in our batch. She was a Theatre Arts student. A good friend to everybody.

Gamboa, April Mae: (April 15) She plays as our mother in our batch. We even organized a family; we call it, The Royal Family. We treat as our mother because she acts as one.--a very caring person.

Gultiano, Christille Angeli: (February 8) Chaz is extremely a talented person. She can dance, act, and sing. But her talent really is on singing. She was even crowned the champion of the singing competition last Intamurals ‘06. She was also chosen to be the recipient of the Legacy of Voice. Chaz is also known as “itlog!” Want to know why we call her that way? Just ask her personally, I can’t tell you here because she might get angry with me if I tell you her greatest secret. Heheh.

Gumalal, Jeraline: The #1 artist in our batch. She has this gift that everyone envies. I admit that I am one of those studes who idolize her. She has this talented hand that can draw very well. I can draw also but really, she’s better than me. She even got the Legacy of Arts.

Lagrana, Carla Erika: (November 3) Another artist in our batch. She also knows how to draw. Her field in arts really is on designing. I admire her love for arts. Carla is also a generous one. If you’re in need, she will never hesitate to give her help. (thank you Carla for the load you have given me, heheh!)

Lagura, Jezza: (December 20) My closest friend and one of my best friends in school. This friend of mine has high sex appeal to boys. Imagine that at least five boys in our batch was captured by her beauty which lies not just inside but also outside. She even receives some billet-doux from her admirers.

Leopardas, Shallunah Faith: (February 22) Sha2x is an actress in the making. A member of the UPSTAGE club and a cast in every play our batch has produced. She dreamed of becoming a grand slam best actress in the future.

Miranda, Elaine Reina: (January 15) Elaine is the “Queen of Texts”. She gained a lot of friends through the power of cellular phones. She’s my only classmate who calls me “Lao-Tze”. I like her company because she sometimes make me chuckle with her contagious laugh.

Nolasco, Christine Marie: (October 7) The dancer in our batch. She even received the Legacy of Dance. Dancing truly is her passion. If there is something to present, she’s always appointed as our choreographer.

Orais, Christine: (October 5) She is also gifted when it comes to arts. She was even the only student in our batch who got a flat one grade in our Home Technology project when we still in our second year. She is also a happy-go-lucky person.

Paldo, Razel: Small but terrible. This girl is the President in our Civic Welfare Training Services (CWTS). She is also an intelligent girl. She’s always on top! Way to go girl!!!

Raya, Shydel: (April 30) She is my other best friend! Shydel is a very jolly person. I think the word “unhappiness” is not found in her vocabulary. She always make me laugh with her natural way of delivering a joke. And also, her laugh makes me giggle so much.

Semblante, Anjeanette: (October 16) She is an athletic girl! Name that sport and she knows how to play that game. She was the recipient of the Legacy of Sports. She’s a good friend of mine also. I love her company because she makes me laugh with her crazy things.

Tallo, Gayle Lorraine: (September 24) She’s the tallest among all the girls of batch ’06-’07. We even name her as “skyscraper”. She was proclaimed the Best Actress during our Dramafest.

Vidal, Bernalene: (March 11) She’s one of those diligent studes in our batch. Maniana habit is a big no no to her. Time is truly precious to her.

The Amazing 64! (Part 2, Gonzalez)

Enego, Nico Martin: (May 23) He is one of the tallest guys in our batch. Nico is also good in computers. His group even won the best webpage for our Cyber Fair contest. He is a gentleman also. And wait, he is also the recipient of the Legacy of Counsel.

Ferrer, Euvic: (October 13) He was our SC President. Euvic is indeed a good leader. He also has the talent of creativity. Creativity in the sense of making unique productions. He even won the Best Director when we were still Juniors. It was when he directed our Kuwentuhan. Euvic also had the Legacy of Confidence.

Gutib, Paul Andrew: Together with Nico, he is also the tallest guy in our batch. He is also a man of computers. He’s the boyfriend of my best friend Shydel. I can say that he is gentleman ang caring not just to his girl but also to the rest girls in school.

Joaquin, Michael Angelo: (August 24) He is considered the “Math Wizard” in our batch. He is really genius when it comes to numbers. He has really high grades when it comes to that field. I adore him because he stays humble. Michael is also a good person. And wait, Michael was the recipient of the Legacy of Wisdom.

Labadia, Gian Carlo: I don’t know much of this guy because we are not close. All I can say is, he is a shy guy. He doesn’t talk that often to girls. I think he only talks with his friends. He is also good in computer.

Mendoza, Lorem: (January 27) He is a performer in the making. Lorem is an active member of the UPSTAGE and a student of the Theatre Arts class. He is also a good actor.

Mepieza, Melbert Ivan: (August 16) He was the goal keeper of our soccer team. Because of him, we, the Seniors, won the championship in soccer. Melbert is also a very generous person.

Metoda, John Albert: (July 9) He can dance well. They say, he will become the Justin Timberlake in the future. We are not that close but I can say that he is a good companion. He can make you laugh with his jokes. He’s indeed a happy-go-lucky person.

Montano, Dan Henry: (February 20) He is the son of our Filipino teacher. He is also good in computers. He is a consistent honor student also. Dan is a good friend to everybody.

Salazar, Bryan: ( April 22) He is the poet of our batch. He can make you nice poems and amazing stories. He’s one of the math wizards also. He is also a good player of the game soccer.

Suralta, Arvin: He is a consistent honor student. He is also a good companion because he can make you laugh out loud with his crazy thoughts.

Talolong, Neil Audrey: (August 10) He was the recipient of the Legacy of Geniality. Indeed, Neil is a friendly person.

Zambrano, Ralph Anthony: (July 29) They say, he is the “ever-pasaway” of our batch. Almost everyday, he has a violation. But even if he’s like that, he is a nice person. He is also a witty person.

The Amazing 64! (Part 1, Gonzalez)

Our graduation is already fast approaching. Because of that, I will be making an article about the 64 different people that crushed in my life. This is not just for the blog requirement but also a memorabilia. This will help me recall my high school batch mates (in case I forget, but I think, it wouldn’t happen!)

I will start with section Gonzalez…

Alvizo, Mariel Stephanie: (July 27) This Dominican beauty loves dancing. An intelligent girl; a consistent honor student in our batch. Joker at times. Very friendly also. She was our Ms. Intramurals last 2006.

Amarado, Mae Ann: I don’t know her much because we never had the chance to become classmates. But others said, she’s “mataray”. Because of that, I sometimes fear her. Heheh! But as what I can see in her, she’s a also a good friend. Better be nice to her or else.. Hey, she is also a consistent honor student!

Arnado, Daphne: this girl was my close friend when we were still second years. We were seatmates at that time so we had the opportunity to get to know each other. All I can say about her is that she is very friendly and kind. Daph is a consistent honor student also.

Bazarte, Mary Chris: (October 26) She has this characteristic of bigheartedness. She even got the Legacy of Generousity when we had our prom last 2006. She is also a very good friend to everybody.

Cabalida, Mary Grace: (September 15) A close friend of mine. We always agree on what we like. Hehe, *JOKE!!*She is a Kapamilya, fan of Red Bull team in PBA and the color pink while I love the things opposite to hers! I am a Kapuso, Brgy. Ginebra Gin Kings fan and a bluish gal! This girl was my seatmate when we took the HSAT. She loves Math while I don’t! She is intelligent when in comes to numbers that’s why she has good grades on it. That leads her in the honors’ list.

Cabunoc, Gabrielle Roxanne: (March 30) She is one of the “kikays” in our batch. She loves dancing. She’s a member of the Jazzers Club in school.She has this gift of gab (Legacy of Gab). That’s why she was named GABrielle!

Comendador, Hazel Marie: (March 17) She is a very good guitarist. Way to go girl! I really admire her because she has the talent that I liked to have. I sometimes envy her because of her ability to play the guitar well.

deL Mar, Jann Krystel: (December 13) Jann was my first friend in UP High. We were seatmates at that time. we became friends because we have the same likes—drawing! We also have the same ambition in life, to work in Disney Pixar and be able to share our talent there. She is also active in performing. She even got the Legacy of Theatre Arts. Jann is a consistent honor student in our batch. She always has a special place in the honors’ lists.

Dinglasa, Juna Rose:( (June 29) She’s one of my best friends in school! Jai2x wants to become a model and an actress someday. This girl is a happy-go-lucky one. Everyday, you can’t see her not smiling. She is a good friend to all. I like her as my friend because she’s thoughtful, caring and sweet.
This friend of mine received the Legacy of Beauty. Juna was deserving of that because she’s beautiful inside-out.

Gudito, Michelle: (November 4) Michy, as I call her, is a consistent honor student. She is also friendly and jamming. She is also a good leader to everyone. Indeed, she was the recipient of the Legacy of Leadership.

Lerio, Danesa: (November 28) She has this beauty like an Indian. Dane is a good friend to all. She is now happy with her life because he already found his prince charming.

Montecastro, Doanne Lyre: (March 30) She is one of my close friends in school. We share same interests. She likes anime shows so do I. I like her company because she never runs out of topic. She is truly a good friend. I treat her like my sister. I think she knows almost all of my secrets.

Oliverio, Kimberly Kathe: (March 9) Kimie is also a Student Welfare like me. But she is stricter than me. Anyway, we were just classmates for three years. We are not that close but still I consider her as one of my dearest friends in school. She is also a consistent honor student in our batch. Kimie is our platoon leader together with Dichos in our CWTS.

Pacaldo, Daisy Ran: We were classmates’ way back our first year life. Since then, I was not able to know her more. I don’t know her that much also. But what I surely know, she can be trusted. She is also a friendly person to everybody.

Sacmar, Maria Ernestine: (December 24) She is the only girl in our batch who was not my classmate. I think we’re classmates only during P.E. classes. Despite that, she is one of my dearest friends in school. This friend of mine is caring and supportive one. She is always ready to help you when you are in need.

Sarmago, Ella Beverly: (March 8) She is considered the “kikay” of our batch. Ella never runs out in style. She dreamed of becoming an actress or a model someday. Ella indeed is a good actress. She can also show you her graceful moves. We are not that close but still I consider her as one of my close friends in school.

Sarmiento, Aiko: (December 23) She is named as “Monalisa” in our batch. It’s because of her eyebrows which has a thin hair that looks like Aiko doesn’t have eyebrows at all. She is also a witty girl. And wait, she is also the best composer of our batch. Almost all of her composed songs won as the best theme song. I adore her for that. If she will just go on with her talent, I know that she will have a good future in the field of song composition.

Soon, Olga Marie: (April 25)She was my close friend when we were in our second year. But now, even we are not that close anymore, we never forget to say our hi’s and hello’s to each other. Olga is a trustworthy friend. She can keep your secrets well.

Yee, Theresa: She received the Legacy of Journalism. She is also the President of the Stargazers’ Society. Others say she is the “Queen of Jokes”. She can deliver funny jokes and most of all, corny ones. Peace Yee! Hehehe

Dramafest '07

32 years have passed since Dramafest started. With all those years, each batch has shown their talents and expertise on other fields.

Last March 2, 2007, the batch 2006-2007 studes , performed our very own Dramafest. Because of the lack of time, both sections, Tan and Gonzalez, weren’t able to create an original script for the play. Instead, Dr. Ereno handed us different copies of scripts which were written by a playwright and an alumna of UP High batch 1991. “Sa Ngalan ng Ama” went to Quevedo Productions (Gonzalez) while “Bulag” went to Tanikala Productions (Tan). Both stories were about conflict of family members specifically between the father and son.

“Sa Ngalan ng Ama” tells the story of the Villasante family which was headed by their military bread-winner. The story shows how Emmanuel Villasante controlled his family. It’s as if they were like pones in a chess game that every move they made was of the player’s decision or want. In short, they have the freedom to choose what to do.

The Villasante family were portrayed by Paul Andrew Gutib (Emmanuel), Ella Beverly Sarmago (Dolor), Nico Martin Enego (Miguel), Juna Rose Dinglasa (Fatima), John Albert Metoda (Angelo), Lorem Mendoza (Manuelito) and Aiko Sarmiento (Yaya Maria). The play was directed by Jann Krystel del Mar and produced by Euvic Ferrer.

If Gonzalez were able to perform to the crowd their own Dramafest, Tan also showcased what they have.

“Bulag” tells the story of a father who has a strong principle in life. Because of what he believes in, his son was captured and shot to death. His son was accused of killing a cop in the squatter’s area where he wanted to help the people living there.

Joseph Caesar Freinademetz Esteban played the role of the father (Don Ramon), Gayle Lorraine Tallo (Donya Chedeng), John Paul Catubig as the son of Don Ramon (Rene), Shallunah Faith Leopardas (Marilou), Sunshine as Rene’s girlfriend (Marita) and Nico Antonio Sagun as the mayor domo of the family (Tasyo). The squatters were portrayed by Richard Rey Caminade, Jezza Lagura, Reniel Panares, Mary Lyndel Amora, Nathaniel Gopinathan and yours truly, Novelyn Lao. Our play was directed by no other than Artsron Sumabong and produced by Razel Paldo.

Both plays made the crowd shed tears because both sections did their best. And also, each story depicts about a problem between the relationship of a father and a son.

And because this is a contest, it must have awards and of course, awardees. Most of the technical awards went to Gonzalez like Best Poster, Best Musical Scoring, Best Costume and Make-up, Best Set Design, Best Lights, Best Theme song, etc. The best supporting actress went to my best friend, Juna Rose Dinglasa. Tan also grabbed some awards like Best Playbill, Best Interpretation of Script, and Best Stage Management. John Paul was declared Best Actor, Gayle Lorraine as the Best Actress and Nico Antonio was the Best Supporting Actor. Tan also bagged the Best Production and Best Direction award.

All our hard work were worthwhile—going home late because of practices, no rest day for all during Saturdays and accepting criticisms from others.

It was a good feeling after we have shared our talents to others. We did all our best not just because it was considered our Periodical Test in Filipino but also we want to prove to others that we can also do it.

And hey, in behalf of batch 2006-2007, I would like to THANK the teachers who helped us. For giving up their time for our practices. It was really a big help for us.

The Things I Like!

I think everybody has different likes and hobbies. These are things which make you feel happy and relaxed. With these also, you can forget some of your problems. They are immediate remedies of your worries.

I for one have different likes.

Here’s the list of the things I like…

Sketching…
With this, I can forget my problems. Through this also, all my pains are momentarily erased from my mind. Drawing really is my passion. I even want to be known because of my sketches. Sketching really makes me relaxed and happy. I think almost everyday; I have a sketch in my notebooks. Sometimes, if I get bored during class hours, I immediately grab my pen and papers and do some sketching. The things I like to draw are the characters of some anime and cartoon shows. I even placed my sketches in a scrapbook.

Watching Movies…
If sometimes I get bored at home, I usually spend my spare time watching DVD and VCD movies. I even got a collection of those. I prefer watching movies through DVDs and VCDs than in a movie house because it’ cheaper and you can still watch it all over again if you want to. The top ten movies I like were: X-Men 1,2,3; Spiderman 1,2: Freaky Friday; A Cinderella Story; Click; Bring It On 1,2,3; Mulan 1,2; You Got Served; A Walk To Remember; and Chicken Little.

Surfing the Net…
I sometimes like doing some research because I will have the chance in browsing my favorite sites in the internet. I feel happy if I am doing this most especially if I visit my Friendster profile, Yahoo! Accounts, YouTube, Blogger, Radioblog, MyHeritage and many many more!
I also like playing some online games like Freestyle and NBA Live. I don’t know why I like these games but I craved for it for satisfaction and fun. Through internet also, I gained a lot of friends.

Playing Sports…
I like sports! It makes my body strong and teaches me lessons too. My favorite sport is basketball. I really like dribbling the ball and shooting them on the ring. If I was just a boy, I will definitely join a basketball team. My next sport is Softball. I started playing this game when I was a Junior student. It’s a good feeling to be able to hit such a small ball with a bat and make a score for the team. I was very blissful when my team won the championship for two consecutive years. Before, I was just a left-fielder but then I become the short-stop. I was really flattered when I was able to catch the softball that was hit by our opponent. My teammates were very proud of me.

Listen to Music…
If I feel lonely and sad, I tune in to my most wanted radio station or grab my cds and listen to it. It gives me joy and somehow relaxes my mind. Even if I am not a first-rate singer, I usually sing with the song.

These are the five things which I usually do whether I am sad, lonely and happy. How about you, what do you usually do?!?!

Snail, Snail Go Away!!

Because we were under the new curriculum, we had to take up the Research subject. When we were still third years, we were asked to have a certain topic which will then be defended at the end of the grading period. And after that, sixteen projects will be chosen. The sixteen researchers of the chosen projects will automatically become the leaders of the group. Luckily, my project was not chosen! I was really happy because I don’t like to be a leader. I hate the big responsibility entrusted on me. I was grouped with Jessa and Christille. Our leader was Nathaniel with his research about the Golden Apple Snails.

With his study, we will be managing these creatures not to destroy the rice crops of the farmers. The Golden Apple Snails (GAS) is now considered a major pest in all rice ecosystems of the Philippines. GAS infestation poses several problems in rice farming systems. They damage young rice seedlings, causes poor crop stand, and yield losses. In fact, these species had been nominated as among the 100 of the “World’s Worst” invaders (Cowie 2007). GAS infestation in the country brought about an increase in the use of molluscicides. Presently, there are four registered chemicals as molluscicides in the list, namely: niclosamide, metaldehyde, izazophos, and copper hydrosulfate. But these chemicals harmed the natural environment and also to humans. These chemicals causes air pollution and can kill animals too. And also, they are too expensive for the farmers. Chemicals are just one of the things that can cause their irritation. Another factor that initiates their irritation are rough and abrasive materials. One of these abrasive materials is the rice hull. The chemical structure of the rice hull, containing amorphous silica bound to water closely resembles that of the opal, and this gives the rice hull some fairly amazing properties (Oliver, P.).

Let me discuss to you the procedures in doing our project. The GAS was first randomly assigned to four different set-ups. These set-ups all contained the same amount of water, the same mass of gabi leaves and two snails. Three of these set-ups were experimental set-ups which underwent the experimental treatment by adding different amounts of rice hulls (5 grams, 10 grams and 15 grams). The control group on the other hand had no rice hulls. Before the experiment treatment, initial measurements of the masses of gabi leaves were taken. The final measurements were taken 12 hours after the treatment. The statistical treatment used was the ANOVA to able to determine the effect of rice hulls on the leaf intake of GAS in terms of the mass of gabi leaves after 12 hours.

Based on the findings, the application of more amounts of rice hulls effectively lessens the leaf intake of the golden apple snails. It is because the rice hull has its abrasive property that discourages the snails from eating too much. The rough surface of the rice hull irritated the snail that enables them from secreting mucus which is their defense mechanism from the abrasiveness of the rice hull that eventually weakens them.

Our research study has significant effects to rice millers and some farmers throughout the regions. These will greatly help the rice millers for these hulls are problems to them who end up dumping and burning these. For the farmers, on the other hand, these hulls will serve as an agent in GAS management. These snails should be managed rather than killed for they help in weed management and in maintaining the ecosystem for they serve as food for other animals.

Blue Reef, Here We Come!!!!

Last December 18, 2006, my batchmates and I had an outing at the beach. The perfect place was in Blue Reef located somewhere in Lapu-Lapu City. It was just a simple plan of section Tan but section Gonzalez wants to come with us, too. At first, we, the section Tan, didn’t agree on it because we just want it to have it with our own classmates. But then we realized that it would be more fun if Gonzalez will come over with us. We consider it as a boding time.

Before the said date, I was already excited on what will happen on our outing. Because of excitement, I was not able to sleep well. I kept on thinking and thinking on the things that will come about. I was so early preparing the things needed. I even checked my things over and over to make sure that I will not leave something for the outing.

I think it was still 4:35 A.M. when I woke up. I then grabbed my phone and texted my batchmates and some friends that I am already geared up for the outing. I thought that I was the only one who was excited for the outing but also my batchmates too. The craziest thing I have done before the outing is that I did not take a bath at home! It’s because it will be just futile if I do it. Am I right?!

When I reached at the waiting shed, our meeting place, I only saw Christine Marie waiting there. I thought that I was late because our meeting time was 7:00 o’clock and I arrived there at 7:05 A.M. I think it was 7:30 A.M. when one by one my batchmates arrived. We hired a bus to take us there.

In the bus, all were very excited already. But before we left, we prayed and asked God’s guidance for our trip. Mme. Montano was with us too. The bus was filled with smiles and laughter. On our way, we passed by the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC). I was amazed on the beauty of the structure. We also stopped over on a store. We bought four lechon manok for our lunch.

I suppose it was almost 9:00 A.M. when we reached the place. We didn’t go in immediately because Mme. Montano and Mrs. Suralta first checked the place if it is not perilous. Both parents agreed that Blue Reef is not safe for us. It’s because of the cave thingy in the beach and also with the slides. We were sad when they told us that they willnot give us their permission to have our outing there. We had a little meeting on what to do. Some suggested having the outing on other beach but some also said that it is nicer to have it in the Blue Reef. Majority of the class wants Blue Reef to be the venue for the outing. We had a hard time convincing both parents. After an hour of explaining, Mme Montano and Mrs. Suralta finally agreed. We were very happy of the decision they made. We then lined up at the entrance.

When we went in, I was happy on the view that I saw. We then selected a cottage, one for Gonzalez and one for Tan. We hurriedly changed our clothes. We spend most of our time on the beach. We really had fun with the slide because it was indeed a breathtaking one. Even if the sun was hot, it didn’t stop us from staying in the beach. We also made some sand castles there. Sir Jover and Mme. Nunez were also with us. They arrived there at noon. We ate our lunch together. We all shared the foods we brought.

After we have eaten our lunch, we went back to the beach. We just love staying there. Even if I don’t know how to swim, I really had fun in there.

It was already 4:00 P.M. when we decided to pack up our things. All of our faces and skins went red and turned a little darker. Just imagine yourself staying in the beach under the heat of the sun for almost 6 hours.

We left the place at around 4:30 P.M.

The outing we had was one of the memorable events that happened to me. Thanks guys!

It's too much!

“Great power comes with great responsibility!” Every leader possessed great power over others but has big responsibilities that he/she must comply. But even if he has these powers over others, it also has certain limitations. One certain limitation I know is not to abuse what he has which others do not have. But this limitation was not followed with one of the Civil Welfare Training Services (CWTS) officer.

Last March 9, 2007, two members of platoon Babaytan fainted. Want to know why that happened?!?! Let’s trace the history…

When the bell rang for the CWTS time, we gathered in Tan room for a short meeting. Razel, the CWTS President, said that with the two hours we have, we will just be practicing for the tribute we will be giving to the retirees and to those who will resign to office. All the other officers were assigned to different platoons namely Babaytan, Odyssey, Polaris, Voo doo Fink, and C2 girls. Platoons Babaytan, Odyssey and some C2 girls were merged to form section Tan. So as with Polaris, Voo doo Fink and the other half of C2 girls for section Gonzalez.

After the meeting, we had an inspection of uniforms which lasted for at least ten minutes. After which, we had some drills in marching. And if one got mistake, the rest will also suffer the consequences. It goes with the saying, “all for one, one for all!” We were asked to march gracefully with no sounds. It was very challenging for us. Because of much marching, my co-platoon, April Mae Gamboa asked this certain “officer” if she could rest for a while because she was very tired already and she felt like fainting if she will continue the drills. All were shocked with what this “officer” replied. He said “sige, i.move out tika sa platoon, rest for 3 minutes lang.” Then he faced us and said, “hala sige, damayi ninyo si April kay nalipong. Kamo pud paglipung-lipong pud mo para makapahuway”. If I were in the place of April, I will be very insult with what this “officer” uttered. It was like he did not believe that April was not feeling well already. We were really worried for April’s condition because she really looks pale. We were relieved when Sir Eldee and Sir Nico brought her to the clinic. Because of what happened, we had no time for snacks and we just kept on backbiting about this “officer”.

When recess time was over, we were again asked to line-up. Luckily, I was moved out in the platoon together with Jerah and Carla because Mme. Maglasang requested us to help her for the preparation for the High School Achievement Test. I was happy at that time because finally I can rest from those exhausting drills.

Jerah, Carla and I waited for our batch mates in the AS building. They were tasked to bring arm chairs there for the examinees. After a few minutes, I can finally see those white shirts and the black ones coming.

When they arrived at the AS building, we immediately arranged the chairs and numbered them accordingly. I think it was somehow the rest time for all. After all work was done, we then went back to the field to continue the things we need to do.

As we were walking to the field, the “officer” suddenly commanded us to line up as soon as possible. He then started counting “1,2,3...”. When the number reached to 35, we were not yet complete at that time. 46 was the last number he said. Because of we were very dilly-dally in forming the simple lines, we were asked by this “officer” if what was the difference between 46 and 15. So we answered him, “sir, 31 sir!”. Then he said to us, “okay, give me 31 bombers!”. Of course we have to obey him because he is an officer. So we did the punishment he asked from us. I don’t know why he was very angry with us. I think being late in forming the line is not the basis for the heavy punishment he made. He was not yet contented with the 31 bombers so he added 5 more. So we had 36 bombers all in all. I think he was just too much!

Because of what he did, two of my classmates cried for pain- Jezza and Jessa! After we were dismissed, we immediately went to our room. There, we cried and shouted because of tiresome. All agreed that the “officer” was too abusive. I think everybody was angry at him by that time. After all the chaos that happened, Jezza suddenly fainted in front of me. I was very nervous because I was the one beside her at that time. This “officer” then entered our room. When he went in, all stared at him. Jezza suddenly got her consciousness and scolded this “officer”. Jezza said that he was inconsiderate to us. I shed a tear upon hearing the words spoken by my friend. Yes! Jezza was right! After Jezza have spoken, some of my friends also talked to him and let him realized what he did was wrong. Razel even scolded this “officer”. Tan room was filled with tears and anger was present with everybody. Because of weakness, Jezza was sent to the clinic. My other classmate, Jessa was also sent to clinic for medication too. She also fainted because of tiresome.

This “officer” didn’t bother to ask an apology. I don’t know why he didn’t do it. Because of what he did, we were angrier at him.

After an hour, I checked on my friends at the clinic. I was relieved when I saw them fine already. Smiles were on their faces now.

Intramurals '06

“And the over-all champion for this year’s Intramurals is none other than the…… Extra Hot Seniors!!!” This was the most beautiful line I heard during the awarding ceremony to end Intramurals ’06. We have been to difficult challenges before we were crowned the champions.

Last November 2006, the University of the Philippines High School in Cebu had their Intramurals. It was started with a short colorful parade of all the year levels. Each year levels were headed by their respective muses and escorts. Our bets were Mariel Stephanie Alvizo and Lorenz Gideon Esmero. The torch was also lighted to open Intramurals ’06 after the parade. Then the presentation of the candidates for the Mr. and Ms. Intramurals followed. All wore their best sports attire and were able walk gracefully in front of the judges. It’s not just the looks that were scored but also the intelligence of the contestants and on how they answer the questions thrown to them. I bet the judges had a hard time in choosing who’s going to win. After the contests, the cheer dance competition followed. All were nervous for their respective presentations. Each year levels delivered their very own cheer dance to the crowd with smiles on their faces and the determination to win. After all had presented, the judges were all busy tabulating the grades. A few minutes later, the winners were then announced. The Juniors bagged the 1st place in the cheer dance competition. Mariel Stephanie was crowned the Ms. Intramurals 2006 as well as Adrianne of the Juniors as Mr. Intramurals 2006. All accepted their defeat and humbly acknowledged their victory.

The following sports were played during the said event: basketball (boys), softball (girls), volleyball (boys and girls), soccer base (girls), soccer (boys), table tennis (boys and girls), chess and scrabble (boys and girls). I was a player of soccer base and softball.

It was a challenge for the Seniors to win each game because we are the oldest than the other year levels. We are expected to be the champions. It was not easy for us to grab the 1st place of all the games because the lower years especially the Juniors were also competitive and were really determined to beat us.

In the game that I played, we were also struggling to win because the lower years were also good. Especially in softball, the Sophies improved a lot. They were our opponents for the finals. They had beaten their ates, the Juniors. We were nervous at that time because we were thinking if the Sophies will beat us and we will lose the opportunity in defending our title. But with God’s grace and our teamwork, we were able to win. It was a great pleasure to be the champions again. I was very proud of myself because at that time, I was able to contribute to the victory we got. Last Intramurals ’05, I wasn’t able to play during the finals because I was injured.

We were declared 1st placers of the games softball, basketball, soccer base, volleyball (boys) and soccer. Almost all of the major games were won byus.

During the closing ceremony, a dance and singing contest also happened. Each year levels must have a contestant for each category: solo, duet and doblekara. Christille Angeli Gultiano (solo), Doanne Lyre Montecastro and Nico Antonio Sagun (duet), and Euvic Ferrer (doblekara) represented the Seniors.
Christille was declared the 1st placer for solo with her winning piece, I Still Believe by Mariah Carey; Doanne and Nico were the 2nd placers with their song I’m Your Angel by Cline Dion and R. Kelly and Euvic also was the 2nd placer for doblekara with his contest piece “”.

“And the over-all champion for this year’s Intramurals is none other than the…… Extra Hot Seniors!!!” We were declared the champions. All the hard work we’ve done was all worth it. We have learned that Intramurals is not just a day of playing games but also on how to win it. To be able to reach the top, each of members of the team must cooperate. Teamwork is the key to success! Congratulations SENIORS for a job well done!




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Remember Me This Way...

As we all know, I am one of the graduating students in the University of the Philippines High school this year. We will be parting ways already. It hurts to think of it but on the other side, it’s an triumph for we had finished our high school life. Well, that’s life. We just have to go on and live life to the fullest.

But how will I want to be remembered in UP High as a student? A friend? A classmate?

--As a STUDENT, I want my teachers to remember me as the fighter. Fighter in the sense of academic performance. Because, since I entered this school, I had a hard time maintaining my grades and joining in the honor’s list. When I was still in elementary, I was a consistent honor student. I think the lowest rank I got was when I became the rank 5 in class. My usual rank before is either the topnotch or the second honor. I don’t know what happened to me when I became an Iskolar ng Bayan. Maybe because the quality of education between my former school was different with UP’s system. Honestly, I am struggling with my UP life. I experienced failures in my weakest subject, Mathematics. Even if I failed on it, I didn’t give up. Indeed, I really did my best after what happened. I experienced having a line of seven grades just when I transferred here. It was not pleasant to the eyes if you can see a red mark or a line of seven grades. Since then, I am doing my very best not to fail again and to have good grades especially in Math.

--As a CLASSMATE, I want them to remember me as the happy-go-lucky one. That despite all my problems, I still manage to laugh and make other people laugh. I really love to laugh all day because it makes me stress-free. It is also a good feeling to bring joy to your classmates even in a simple way. I thank God that He has given me this gift, the talent of letting people smile.

--As a FRIEND, I want my friends to remember the simple me. A friend that they can always count on. The friend who was always there when they needed someone. And also, the friend who never forgets painting smiles on their faces.

Journalist in the making?!?

Since elementary, I was already a member of a Journalism club. It was not my choice to join the organization; it was just an accident. I became a member of it simply because I have good grades in both English and Filipino. Honestly, I am not into this stuff. I’m not good in writing essays, feature stories and news articles. Writing really is not my passion. But even if it wasn’t my cup of tea, I entered the world of journalism. Unexpectedly, I was one of the chosen few to represent my elementary school, Cebu Normal University, for the Press Conference. Some of the chosen students include my best friend named Jennifer Angela and my other two close friends namely Lorraine Tio and Stanley Noel. We were afraid when we knew that we will represent the school but we were also excited to do it for our school. I knew it would be one of my unforgettable experiences because joining such contest is an opportunity for you to show the world that you can bring honor not just to your school but also to yourself.

The Division Press Conference was held in Zapatera Elementary School last November of 2002. This was participated by different schools all over Cebu City and Cebu Province. I was the contestant in Copy reading and Headline Writing, Filipino Category. In this category, each of us will be given a news articles with errors on it’s content. We are tasked to edit the errors and afterwards, make a headline for the news article. Other categories also include Sports Writing, News Writing, Feature Writing, Editorial Making and Editorial Cartooning and Photo Journalism.

We were sent to different classrooms during the contest proper. During my contest, of course I got nervous. But when I read the news article, I find it easy. It was not challenging for me because it was just like a practice piece, which my coach always gives me during my free time. <> It was just easy for me maybe because I was really trained hard. Imagine yourself being excused from a class and then will let you copy read at least five articles a day. The training was worth it because I won First place. I received a trophy and a certification that I will be representing not just my school in the Regional Presscon but also the whole Cebu. All of my friends also won and we will all be going to the next round, which is the Regional Finals.

Bais City in Negros Oriental was our next destination. The Regional Presscon will be held there. We were very excited because we will be going out of Cebu. It was in December of 2002 when we went there. I think we stayed there for four days and three nights. It was my first time to be away from home without any family member around. From that experience, I learned how to be an independent person. I find it nice to be all by yourself sometimes because it will truly help you.

Before the start of the contest, we had a parade in the city. All the Cebuano representatives wore fuchsia pink shirts . It was a bad day for me because I was not feeling well at that time. I didn’t enjoy the activities as well as I wasn’t able to review for my tilt the next day. Because of lack of preparations, I was mentally-blocked during my contest. I cannot explain to myself why I was like that. Because of that, I was not able to concentrate with my contest piece, which results to not winning it. I was disappointed at that time that I was not able to bring fame to my school again. I was also shy to face my coach and my other friends who won heir category. I thought that they will be disappointed too but they showed me their support even if I didn’t won. They were still proud of me because I was able to reach the regional finals and only a few have the opportunity to join in. despite my failure in the contest, I was very thankful to God and to the people around me who supported me.

It was indeed one memorable event I experienced.

Moment with the stars..

I am a big fan of some Kapuso stars, MYMP band and Bisrock bands too. I even want to see them up close and personally. Indeed, last May 1, 2005 when GMA network held a Grand Kapuso Fan's Day in the Abellana Sports Complex, my sister and I didn't hesitate to go there. The location was fine with us because it is just near our house. We went there very early in the morning; I think it was still six o'clock in the morning. We decided to go there early to have a good place to stay. When we reached there, we didn't expect to see a lot of people already. We thought we would be the earliest but there were a lot already. The guard gave us an I.D. to be recognized as guests. The good thing there is that the place because you can feel the security for the event was good. I met some of my cousins there, so my sister and I decided to stay with them. The program started at about eight o'clock. Gifts and surprises were at stake when you join and win their fun games. People had fun with the said games. When the clock reads twelve o'clock in the afternoon, the crowd was very excited already, SOP was about to begin. The place was surrounded with cheers and eagerness to see their favorite stars. I was one of them. The program lasted for almost three hours. The artist of the Kapuso channel entertained all the Cebuanos there with their song and dance numbers. Because of the said event, I was able to see my favorite stars, which includes Jennylyn Mercado, Mark Herras and Kyla. I also had some signatures of some stars too. I brought my camera with me at that time so whenever I feel like capturing their beautiful faces, I just click on it for remembrance purposes. I admit that I was star struck at that time. I was very happy for attending the event.

Aside from the Grand Kapuso Fans Day last May, I also attended the mini concert of my favorite local artist. Make way for the "Make Your Momma Proud" (MYMP). I really like how Juris Fernadez delivers the song and how his partner Chin Alcantar plays the guitar. It can really make me happy when they play music together. It was held in my sister's school, Southwestern University. It was again advantage for us because we can reach there just by walking. The ticket costs P200.00. My mother bought 2 tickets, one for me and one for my sister. We tahnked our mother for giving us the chance to see our idols. We were very happy when we were there. I was not able to bring my camera with me at that time because I never expected that I will have the chance. My mother didn't agree with us before because it is just a waste of money.

We all know the newest craze here in Cebu is on Bisrock bands. I am an avid fan of Bisrock bands because their songs our what people experiences. I really love it. Last January 11, 2007, I had the chance to see them live. My sister’s school invited them for their "Foundation Day". Their band, Kabobo launched their debut album on the said event. The ticket was affordable, it only costs P50.00. But because my mother also worked in my sister's school, I was able to watch the concert for just P10.00. I really had fun there because I was able to see my favorite bands like Phylum, Aggressive Audio, Mantequilla and Missing Filemon. I was with my sister too at that time. We went home with smiles on our faces. I will never forget this.

My moment with the stars was very memorable for me because it made me close with my sister. I just realized that we have the same interests. Thank you sis!

What's the prob?!?!

The problem with men is that...

-sometimes secretive
Yes! Men too hide secrets especially when with their health. I can say that because one man in my life, my father, is very secretive. He keeps to himself that all his health problems. He does not share it with us. I think he is doing this because he does no want us to worry about him. But he does not know we worry more when he do that.

-too possessive
When it comes to their girlfriends, they become possessive. As if they own the life of their partners. Sometimes, they want them always at their side. But how about the friends of the girls? Can she not stay with them even for a while. Most girls hangout more with their friends rather than their so-called boyfriends.
Because of these, men became selfish because they will only lesser time with their girls. But I think he should understand that. Sometimes, I hate guys like that but sometimes I also recognize their side.

-supercilious
Other says that men are superior. Sometimes I believe in that principle. Most men when they achieve what
They want, they cannot hide the happiness that may lead to his superciliousness or the Filipino term "mahangin".

-sometimes irresponsible/lazy
Most men prefer playing than doing chores. I know that it's a must for a woman to learn how to do chores but it's unfair if man would not do the same thing too. We must all learn these things for our life. We must not be dependent to others.

The problem with women is that..

-secretive
Women too are secretive like men. It's not with their health but their life. Sometimes women hide something. They
became more secretive when they are with their cliques which are all girls.

-back-biters
I definitely accept that we are definitely backbiters especially when we hate
something or someone. I thin it's nature with us. We can't stop it but we can lessen it.

-cry babies
When we get hurt, we easily cry even if it shouldn't be. We are not too brave. But it's just okay not like the boys because we show off when we are really hurt. Most boys are afraid to cry because they think it will make them less masculine. But hey, it's not bad seeing guys crying.


Each of us has different attitudes whether it is nature or not. We must understand each of them. But if they are negative, try changing those. Others may be annoyed by what you show off.

Hardwork is the key..

When we were still Juniors, we had a semestral subject which is Research. In this field, we were asked to find a research study to work on and defend on it at the end of the grading period. Mr. Jover Nuñez was our mentor then. It was very hard for us to secure a research study that is essential to people. When I first approached my study to Mr. Nuñez, I was very scared because maybe he will not accept it. I was right, he rejected my project. I was disappointed at that time but that wouldn't be an enough excuse to give up. Even if I will fail a hundred times, I will never quit. It was not easy for me to find one. Luckily, the mother of my former classmate was a big blessing for me. She helped me out to find a good research topic. Because of her, I was able to find one. But even if I already had a research topic, I still have a porblem. Because with our research study, we must come up with a paper bearing the significance of it to mankind. Again, it was very tough for me. I even got a grade of 76 on this on the third grading because I was not diligent enough on my work.I think it was a lesson for me. Because of what happened, I was challenged to have an 80 mark on the fourth grading. I know it will really need a lot of hardwork but I must do it for my own good. After the defense, I was relieved becauseat last I was free with it. I was very happy that my hardwork was worth it because I was able to have my target grade which is 80.

After all had defended their study, we were told by our teacher that, he will choose sixteen best projects. The chosen studies will be the topics that we should perform on the next school year. Good thing my project was not chosen because as what my teacher told us, the owner of the project will automatically be the leader of the group. I don't like to be a leader because it is a very big responsibilty and I am not good at it. I am a member of Nathaniel's group. My co-members includes Jessa and Christille. Our new research topic is all about Golden Apple Snails more popularly known here in the Philippines as Golden Kuhol. In his reaserch study, we must control these pests in harming the rice fields.

Even if the school year 2006-2007 has not started yet, we, the Seniors, were all busy with our Research projects, It is like investigatory projects but the difference with it is, it is more complicated and challenging. I thought that it would be easier because we are four in this group but I was wrong. The elements needed to have a succesful project may be sum up with two words: teamwork and cooperation.

With goup projects, misunderstandings will never be absent. It is nature fro everyone to have some squabbles. It is also important to a group because it will help you out what's the best thing to do next. As the saying goes, "learn from your mistakes". I experienced this a lot of times with my group. I was even told by our leader that because I was not devoted to our project, I was like a free-rider. With what he said, I was guilty. It was true that I did not give in my whole me in the project and I was dependent on them. Little by little, I was trying my very best to help in our project. Sometimes, I hate doing the research things because I already spent my allowance on this stuff. My mother even got mad at me because I always ask for extra money for internet purposes. But later, she understood the situation I that was in.

Last week was the deadline for our research papers. I was sad at that time because Jessa and I failed to make what our leader has instructed us. We also wasted P100.00 for printing the wrong files. I almost cried but I did not allow my tears from falling down. It was again a lesson for us. All the pain and disappointments were gone when our teacher Prof. Baltazar returned our papers. Our group gt the highest grade with 88. Our teacher even appreciated us for a job well done. Our money and efforts were all worth it.

Ad now that Science Fair is fast approaching, we are all now nervous because we will be defending our study in front of all the students of UP High and other schools too. This activity really needs full teamwork and cooperation.

Once upon a star...

Students from the University of the Philippines High School in Cebu belongs to different clubs. This includes Math and Science, NETizens, Tambuli, Glee, Jazzers, UPSTAGE, UPAC, and the famous organization, the Stargazers Society .Members of this club are also known as Stargazers. It is composed of all year levels starting from the Freshies up to the Seniors. As far as the UP system is concerned, the Stargazers Society has the most number of members. Professor Erlinda Gallo is the adviser of this organization. This club holds overnight activities for gazing different stars or constellations up in the sky.

Last February 2, 2007, the Stargazers Society held an overnight stay in school. It was not my first time to join in the said overnight because I am not just a member of this organization but I am also an officer specifically P.R.O. I was loyal member to this club, I stayed for three years already. And since my membership on this coterie, I have not missed any stargazing activity yet.

The overnight activity is usually done from seven o'clock in the evening of Fridays and ends on six o'clock in the morning of a Saturday. It always starts with a lecture forum at the LEADER with Mr. Cristopher Go. With the lecture forum, students has the chance to ask all the questions about astonomy and for sure, Mr. Go can give the answer you want. After this little talking sessions, the Stargazers are free to do anything they want to do. They can either sleep talk, eat, watch movie or even play a game. Hey, but no PDA (Public Display of Affection) please. That's a school violation. Anyway, let's go back to our topic. It is up to the students if what will they do for the rest of the night. But most of those who join the overnight prefer not to sleep instead they want to spend the night talking and playing with friends and classmates. But for the first time because of tediousness, I almost spent my whole night for sleeping. For the previous stargazing, I had no time for sleeping because I enjoy the night hanging out with friends. It didn't happen last Friday because only a few of my batchmates and close friends in school joined the said activity. Before, we usually sleep at three or four in the morning (Saturday time), so we only havefew hours in sleeping. Even it's fun not to sleep together with friends but it also has disadvantages. One of these would be the lack of sleep. Imagine yourself sleeping for only two hours instead of the required eight hours. Well of course, I am sure that when they reach home, they will sleep again to regain energy after the strenouos things you have done last night.

The Stargazers Society is looking forward for another overnight activity. The good thing is that we will not be holding it inside the campus but outdoors already. Yipee! We will be doing the activity at the University of San Carlos. We, especially the Seniors, were very happy upon hearing the good news because at least before we graduate, we will have another time together to enjoy our stay in UP..

The overnight activity is somewhat like a bonding activity with others. It is where you meet and get to know each other more. It is one of the objectives of this club to get along with others. Isn't that essential?

I am proud to be a member of this one-of-a-kind club. I never had regrets that I joined in.

Where I Belong

“Clique” refers to a small exclusive group of people. It is the same as the words “barkada” in Filipino language. It is composed of different people with different characteristics but were grouped together to form a family.

I think each of us belongs to a group with a certain name like me; I belong to different organizations in school. First on the list is with my bestfriends. We call ourselves “JuNoSh” (Juna, Novy, Shedz).the name of our group is the combinations of the first two letters of our name. JuNoSh was founded when we were still Second Years. Since then, it was known to our classmates.

After JuNoSh, another group was popular to our batch. Give way to the “Royal Family!” Sounds cool right? As the name says, we are a family in this coterie. Each member of this group has a role. The members of this group includes: Czarina (great grandmother); Gayle (grandmother); April Mae (mother); Nico Antonio (father); Byron and Jezza (children of Nico Antonio and April Mae); Grace, Jessa, Brent, Jann, Doanne and Ralph (children of April Mae with unknown father); Shydel, JP and Juna (Jessa’s step siblings); Ernestine (April Mae’s sister); Christille (Ernestine’s only daughter and JP’s wife); Yolike, Gabrielle, Olga and Ella (April Mae’s adopted daughters); Lorenz (Yolike’s husband); Albert , Janua, Danesa and Richard (neighbors of the family); Mariel (Albert’s second wife); Daisy (Mariel’s sister); Nico Martin (Mariel’s husband); Kimberly(Nico Antonio’s legal wife); Carla (Jezza’s only daughter); Aiko (mayordoma of the family); and yours truly (the one and only niece of April Mae with unknown parents). We are really like a family. It is good to have a family not just at home but also in school.

Aside from JuNoSh and the Royal Family, I still belong to a cool group. All the members of this group are girls. The funny thing is that , we call ourselves “SJB” or “Samahan ng mga Junior Boys”. I forgot how this started but I’m sure that I was one of the founders of it. The other members of this group include Shydel, Juna, Jezza, Jessa, AJ, Aiko, Ella, Jann, Grace, Doanne, Yolike and Razel. This group was popular to our batch because of its name and as well as the members of it. But now that we are Fourth Years, we decided to change “SJB” into “SSG” which means “Samahan ng mga Senior Girls”. So far, SJB is more known than SSG. Our favorite hang-out is an internet café’ where we can play an online game called Counter Strike. All I can say is that, all the members of this clique are “pasaway”. Isn’t it?

It’s fun to have a group of your own where you can laugh and enjoy life together. With them, you can share your secrets and ask advices for your problems. They will never leave you alone through sickness and in health. They are always there for you. I thank God for having them as my second family. I will always treasure them for the rest of my life. I bet I will really miss them when the time comes that we will drift apart from each other. But I know, despite the distance, we will be friends forever!

"Hakuna Matata!"

“Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase.. Hakuna Matata! Ain't no passing craze.. It means no worries for the rest of your days.. It's our problem-free philosophy.. Hakuna Matata! Hakuna Matata! Hakuna matata! Hakuna Matata! Hakuna matata! Hakuna Matata! Hakuna matata! Hakuna Matata! Hakuna—“ These lyrics were taken from the movie Lion King 1.

According to the University of Michigan's World Values Surveys (WVS), Philippines is ranked the 30th as one of the Countries with the Highest Levels of "Subjective Well-Being"-- measure a more accurate indicator of personal happiness. Even if how big the problem we encounter, we still manage to laugh. I think its nature with us. We treat happiness as an antidote for any poison that struck in our life.

Laughter is a form of outward expression of amusement, mirth and at times, other emotions. It may ensue (as a physiological reaction) from jokes, tickling and others. Strong laughter can sometimes bring an onset of tears or even moderate muscular pain as a physical response to the act. Laughter is a part of human behavior regulated by the brain. It helps humans clarify their intentions in social interaction and provides an emotional context to conversations. Laughter is used as a signal for being part of a group — it signals acceptance and positive interactions. Laughter is sometimes seemingly contagious, and the laughter of one person can itself provoke laughter from others.

In physiology, a smile is a facial expression formed by flexing muscles most notably near both ends of the mouth, but also around the eyes. Among humans, it is customarily an expression of pleasure or amusement, but can also be an involuntary expression of anxiety, in which case it can be known as a grimace. There is much evidence that smiling is a normal reaction to certain stimuli and occurs regardless of culture. Happiness most often causes the smile to occur, though. Many studies indicate that smiling is an innate reaction, as children blind from birth, and even human fetuses smile; however feral children generally do not smile, perhaps lending evidence to the contrary, perhaps indicating the profound psychological disturbance that results in a member of a social species brought up with no elders or peers. Smiling not only changes a facial expression, but can also make the brain produce endorphins which reduce physical and emotional pain, and give a greater sense of well-being. (www.wikipedia.org)

I do believe that laughter is one of the best medicines for a misery that you experience. I even tried applying it with my problem and it has lessened the impact on me. There’s nothing to lose when we laugh and smile. It can even help you out. I am a happy-go-lucky person. I just laugh at my problems. If you’ll try asking my friends to describe me, then they would really say “ahh, the girl with the smiling face?!” I think I was born like this to make others happy. It gives me a good feeling when I can make someone’s day happy.

So if you need some laughter, you can count on me.

Trip to Bohol

My father is a pure resident in Bohol. He live somewhere in Buenavista, south of Bohol. The family of my father lives there too. Sometimes, during summer or Christmas vacations, I usually stay there. I consider it my second home next to Cebu. I had visited Bohol several times but I haven’t toured the beauty of the island.

My sister graduated her elementary years last 2003. Because she graduated with honors, my Mommy and Daddy (aunt and uncle), planned to tour us around Bohol. I was very happy and excited when I heard their plan. We invited some of my cousins over to go with our trip. The night before the said trip, I kept on imagining what will happen in our tour. Because of too much excitement, I was not able to sleep well.

We woke up early—I think it was still 4:30am. People were very busy preparing all the foods and stuffs needed for our trip. We rented a mini-bus for our transportation.

When the engine of the bus started, I was very excited again because after the whole night of thinking and dreaming of what will happen, finally I can see it in reality. In the bus, all wore happy faces.

On our way to our first stop, I was very excited to see the famous Chocolate Hills. When we reached the place, I was amazed on the picturesque views I saw. I thought that I was still dreaming so I asked my sister to pinch me to prove that I’m not dreaming at all. We took pictures for souvenirs. We stayed there for an hour. I was very happy at that time because finally, I have visited one of the famous tourist spot here in the Philippines.

We decided to have our lunch on a beach resort. We planned to have it in Panglao but unfortunately, we were not able to ask reservations on the resort. So we just went on the next resort located near Panglao, the Dumaluan Beach Resort.

There, you can imagine yourself that you are in Boracay because of the white sands surrounding the place. We rented a cottage and arranged the foods we prepared. Before we ate our lunch, we first enjoy the cold temperature of the beach. I was tasked by my married cousins to guide my nephew and niece. Even though I was with my nephew and niece, I still had fun because they were naughty and I love baby sitting naughty kids because I am also one. I was tired swimming with the kids but it was fun!

We stayed there for almost six hours for sleeping, eating, talking, laughing and swimming. The bond that we had got stronger because of our excursion.

It was around five o’clock in the afternoon when we started packing up our things and mess. We were all tired but you can see on their fasces that we had fun. My Bohol trip was one of my most memorable experiences. And now, I am excited again because my Mommy promised me that we will be having another excursion after I graduate High school.

Stressful Friday

Last January 26, 2007, the Fourth Years especially IV-Tan were very busy. Plenty of work, assignments, projects and tests were given to us. It was the deadline for the periodical tests of Music and Health of Ms. Catherine Rodel. With our music, we were tasked to make a melody for three responsorial psalms. It was very challenging and honestly, it really took me a hard time to compose a perfect melody for the responsorial psalms. I even asked help from some of my classmates. Thanks to Doanne and AJ for helping me out. While in Health, we were asked to read House Bill No. 4110 or the Reproductive Health Act. After which, we shall then comment on what we have read and if we do agree on it or not. A recommendation follows after our comments on the said House Bill.

It was also the deadline for our Calculus bring home exam. Mr. Basadre gave us two problems each. Sir gave us this exam because it will help or improve our grades in Calculus especially to those students who are weak in Mathematics like me.

On this day also, we had a long test in Physics but it was just fine. It was neither about solving analytical problems nor challenging equations but it was just pure identifications. The questions that Mr. Nunez gave were all taken from the Science and Technology magazine Volumes 4 and 5. my score was good- I got forty-two out of fifty , about 84%. It was the first time that I only got 8 mistakes in a Physics exam. Honestly, I studied the two magazines just on the day of our examination. I woke up early at around 4:30am to study the certain magazines. I haven’t studied it last night because I slept while reading the first few pages of the magazine. But it was just fine that I woke up early just to study because I got a good grade on the test.

But what I hated most on this day was the deadline for our Research papers. Mme. Baltazar tasked us to pass all the data or information and make the papers from Chapter1-4. I had problem with my group because we haven’t printed even a single page. So Jessa and I went to an internet café after we have eaten our lunch. We were pressured at that time because we were running out of time and it was almost one o’clock in the afternoon. We even thought that we will be late in our CWTS class. I think we spent P100.00 for the computer and the printings. Only five minutes were left for us to prepare ourselves for our next class.

During our CWTS period, we, the cadets, were asked to clean the area near the stage. We pulled out the grasses and cultivated the soils under the heat of the sun. All of us worked hard because cleaning the area is considered our periodical test.

After the CWTS time, I thought that would be free from pressures. But it was ruined when Nathaniel, the leader of our Research, approached us. He told us that all we printed were all wrong! After hearing the words uttered by Nathaniel, I felt that I was so stupid. I don’t know why I felt that way. I almost cried but I stopped my tears from falling. Because of the mistakes we had, Nathaniel asked our teacher to extend our deadline on Saturday. Good thing that Mme. Baltazar agreed. Somehow, I felt a little relief upon hearing the good news.

Last Friday, I had my first stressful day in the year 2007.