The Scroll

The Scroll through the years Proving its competitiveness in the field of campus journalism, The Scroll has added so much feathers to the cap not only of this school but also of Zambales Division and of the Central Luzon Region as well. Through the years, it has never ceased bagging awards in the DSPC, RSPC and NSPC. It has outbested hundreds of school papers as far as the national level. To recall some of its awards, the first broadsheet issue in the year 2000 saw a good sign as it won second best school paper in the division. Its scribes also bagged awards in the individual contests.

(The Scroll.../ Feature p.8)

True Pinay image Opinion p.4 ‘Gracias Gobernador’

The

What’s happening? Feature p.7-8 Mahal, Mura, Tawad

You’re a winner Mama! Literature p.9 Daddy’s push

School-Community Paper of San Miguel National High School San Nicolas, San Antonio, Zambales

SCR LL What is right must be kept right; what is wrong must be set right.

June-December 2008

Vol. XI No. 1

Manalabe bags gold in cartooning tilt Jayvee Manalabe, this paper ’s editorial cartoonist, copped the first place in the Divisional Schools Press Conference (DSPC), Oct. 8-9. He outshone some 50 hopefuls who cartoonized the mockery of Pinays by the Britons aired over BBC’s Harry and Paul, Sept. 26. “His work (in page 4) really stands out from the rest as he was able to vividly capture the issue,” commented Mrs. Ma. Lilybeth Bacolor, DSPC frontliner. Manalabe said, “I will brace myself further for the RSPC with the hope that I could make it all the way to the NSPC.”

Prov’l gov ‘t sponsors covered court construction

PTCA, studes say thanks Jayvee L. Manalabe Evie B. Rodriguez

Gov. Deloso bats for maximization of Zambales’ wealth Kristian Batac “Our province can be a producer of steel because we have the raw material which is chromite.” Thus spoke Gov. Amor Deloso in his message during the mass oath-taking ceremonies of Federated PTCA and all school PTCA in the whole district, Aug. 30 at the San Antonio Youth Center. He stressed that it is just sad to note that in the past years, foreign investors were the ones who exploited the riches of the province; they got chromite here very cheaply and it comes back to the Philippines so expensively in the form of steel. “We have to maximize the wealth of this province for the welfare of the Zambaleños,” he stressed. He also added, “Help me develop the young of this province not for us now but for the future.” He concluded, “Makakaasa po kayo ng totohanang pagbabago sa Zambales.”

Phase one is done.

Pastor Danilo Ambayen, PTCA President remarked, “This is a great accomplishment not only for the provincial government under the very supportive action man, Hon. Amor Deloso, but also for the school administration headed by Mdm. Linda T. Canonizado and the PTCA officers and members as well; thus, we are truly grateful to the provincial government especially to Gov. Amor Deloso for realizing the request of the SMNHS family.” Phase one of the SMNHS covered court construction is expected to be over by October 9 as it is planned to be accomplished in 90 calendar days. The construction will be done in two phases. This was disclosed by Engr. Francis D. Arcala of the Provincial Engineering Office in a written interview, September 10. The construction of phase one which includes the structural steel and framing with partial roofing began last July 9. Phase two which will include the elevated slab on fill, completion of roofing and electrical lighting is subject for funding. The project cost is estimated at 3.67 million pesos. The project is sponsored by the provincial government spearheaded by Hon. Amor Deloso. Jhanom’s

Standing proud. This structure will serve as a haven of worthwhile activities intended for student development and the whole school community; the first ever school in greater San Antonio to have a covered court, SMNHS is truly grateful to the Provincial Government under the leadership of Hon. Amor Deloso for this grand gift. Steel Marketing is the contractor and Jacinto R. Omila, Jr. is the project engineer. “This is the answer to the plea of last year’s issue of The Scroll in its opinion page titled Wanted: Covered court, which stated the need for the construction of a multipurpose venue where school events can be held,” said Evie Rodriguez, Chief Editor. Madam Linda T. Canonizado, Principal I, expressed her thankfulness to Governor Amor D. Deloso for granting the request of SMNHS.

“Now we can hold programs and other school activities rain or shine; away from the heat of the sun and harm of the rain; gone are the days when we hold PTCA meetings under the shade of the mango tress,” she stressed. “We are lucky for having been blessed with a covered court because it will be a great place for learning outside the classrooms,” reiterated Mrs. Dolores Piocos, MAPEH teacher. “At last, students especially the males like me would have a place to

play our favorite game – basketball; it is now our own and we will no longer go out of the campus and request to play at the nearest barangay basketball court or at the Youth Center for the basketball event during Intramural Meets,” exclaimed Patrick Basilio, fourth year student. Mdm. Linda T. Canonizado and the PTCA officers are now on the process of finalizing the request for the immediate completion of the project’s second phase which they hope will be finished by the end of 2008.

Inflation tops campus survey on nat’l problems Racel A. Galamay

Sign of poverty worsened by inflation. “Imprisoning” themselves in the bounds of the municipal plaza where they stay for days while far from their abode upland, Aetas find comfort amidst the public amenities and beg for mercy from passers-by as they struggle with the day-to-day rising cost of living.

Getting a share of 30.95% from the 210 student-respondents, inflation ranked first among the worst problems of the country as revealed by the campus survey conducted by The Scroll, Sept. 30. Poverty ranked next with 26.19% followed by graft and corruption with 19.05%. The fourth worst problem is the rice crisis with 14.29% then the peace problem with 9.52% in the fifth slot. “Classroom debates prove that inflation is felt by majority of the students in SMNHS and this is reflective if the national picture where majority of the Filipinos feel that life is getting harder every single day due to the unceasing price hike of basic commodities and services,” retorted Mrs. Dolores Piocos, Filipino teacher. She further stressed that she is in the same situation in which the majority of Filipinos nowadays is suffering from.

“Due to inflation, I really have a hard time budgeting the family income,” she complained. One of the respondents, Racel Galamay said, “Inflation is the greatest problem occurring in our country. In almost all products, there’s a price hike and this greatly affects the satisfaction of our daily needs.” “Poverty, as always, remains unsolved; it is a perpetual illness that tortures and kills many Filipinos and it seems like there will be no end to this because our government seems to be blind and deaf with the real picture of the society,” explained Mr. Noel Alber, Social Studies teacher. Some student-respondents, including Ryan Jay Laurino and Dave Torrefranca agreed that it is the problem about government leaders ‘mudslinging’ against each other that must be solved first. “If they will only

be united in combating the ills of the society, everything will be better than ever,” asserted Torrefranca. “I bet, if graft and corruption will be eradicated, all problems will be solved, but that would be next to impossible unless all corrupt officials die with just a strike of a thunder,” jeered Yasir Ahmed, a fouth year Pakistan-native student. Besides the problems cited in the survey, the respondents also stated few more problems like unemployment, rapid population growth, issues in the education sector, and inferior quality of technological machines in some government agencies. “Students feel the woes of the nation; thus their ‘voice’ always counts so we publish them hoping that it would somehow catch the attention of those concerned,” exhorted Mr. Manolito Basilio, The Scroll adviser.

The SCROLL accepts contributions, suggestions, comments or opinions. Send them to [email protected].

The Scroll

2

June-December 2008

CAMPUS NEWS

EC enforces Project SIBA Nessa Marie S. Rull and Joanna Grace K. Albior

Project SIBA Brigade which means Sipa and Ballgames Brigade was launched by the English Club (EC) immediately after Mdm. Linda T. Canonizado, Principal I, approved it, July 21. The project is based on teachers’ and student-leaders’ reports and observation that many students spend their free time sweating out in the open playing sipa and ballgames prior to their classes in the morning, during recess time and in the afternoon. This, as reported, adversely affects the classroom condition because of the unpleasant odor of some students when they enter their class; added to the fact that they would consequently feel irritable and uneasy, thus making

it hard for them to concentrate on their lessons. Project SIBA Brigade aims to : 1) Develop among students the consciousness on wise use of their time. 2) Help students divert their free time into worthwhile and productive activities like reading, brainstorming, and other activities that develop critical thinking skills. 3) Foster a school atmosphere that gives emphasis on academic excellence. The English Club officers with the help of the teachers would collect sipa and ball (for ballgames) whenever students are caught playing in no time other than when they are allowed to - like in MAPEH classes and after classes in the afternoon. The SIBA Brigade patrols

(around the campus) on the following time schedule: 6:30 – 7:30 am, during recess, and 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. Students who are caught are encouraged to proceed to the library or inside their classroom and do other things like reading or playing indoor games like chess, scrabble, etc. This is monitored by English Club officers and concerned teachers. Students caught are reprimanded twice and if they still repeat the same offense, they shall undergo appropriate disciplinary measure through the teacher-adviser concerned and the Guidance Coordinator. Racel Galamay, English Club President, constantly monitors the proper implementation of the project for the welfare of the students.

Benefactors continue helping studes Niño Lester B. Dulay

SMNHS students continue to receive financial assistance from benefactors for school year 2008-2009.

Cong. Antonio M. Diaz

All 569 students enjoy the scholarship support of which the first release of P500 has been distributed in July. The student-recepients are expecting for the second release as it has been pledged by the Hon. Congressman of the Second District of Zambales.

SMNHS Batch ‘80

In addition to the financial aide

from Cong. Diaz, 11 students are being sponsored by Batch ‘80: Jullar Sagpan, Raychiebeth Reyes, Julie Car Rafanan, Meriam Maycong, and Rodelyn Tabon from third year; Jonathan Ancho, Jerald dela Cruz, Clemencio Navilla, Marvin Garcia, Mariliyn Autriz and Allyssa Autriz from fourth year.

Pio Amos Basilio Foundation

Starting with first year students last school year, the Pio Amos Basilio Foundation, in coordination with Mrs. Lyrna Basilio-Caluag, now has 20 second year students in its list of poor but deserving scholars: Rosemarie Villanueva, Wense Gajo, Mclord Evangelista, Roanne Corpus, Julrick Fernandez, Maricar Ramilo, Reymark Ruanto, Joey Santos, Danica Seron, Feby Botea, Jomar Ragadio, Jennelyn Sabinet, Mary Joyce Baguinon, Alvin Evangelista, Angelica Minola, John Paul Abayan and Ellen Sedilla.

San Diego County

Study hard. These were the words stressed by Cong. A.M. Diaz during his visit to SMNHS.

Goosebumps thril s readers Racel A. Galamay

R. L. Stine’s Goosebumps paperbacks continue to thrill students of III Rose as they are required in English class to read one book every quarter. They are now on their third book. Some 40 Goosebumps and other series from the library were randomly distributed to the students for reading requirement with which they are also expected to submit a book review at the end of each grading period. Students continue exchanging books via draw lots. Mr. Manolito Basilio said, “Those books have to be read rather than just being displayed there (library) accumulating dust and in time eaten by termites.” He added that this is part of the implementation of Project QCARE or Quality Learning via Comprehension Acquisition through Reading in English.

With Mdm. Marietta Tejada as Coordinator, the San Diego County has a total of 50 student recepients: Gilbert Anieta, Vanessa Anieta, Gilbert Aquino, Rosalyn Aquino, Christine Bantay, Marvin Bat-ao, Geneva Canonizado, Joshua Dagamat, May Ann dela Cruz, Rufilina Flojo, Jasmine Gonzales,

Randolf Lacerona, Machrina Liwarin, Joyce Marie Parilla, Charmie Liza Ramat, Maricar Ramelo, Michael Ramelo, Jet Ruanto, Rechel Seblario, Mary Race Sevilla. Lexmar Agasa, Marifel Caceres, Jerrica Espiritu, Manuel Garcia, Rodel Manzano, Mary Ellaine Rafanan, Edna Apejas, Marry Christ Ramos, Rochelle Andrea, Reynart Ancho, Julieann Ayonque, Patrick Basilio, Beverlyn Borja, Jonathan Castañeda,, Mary Joy Castor, Jennalyn Farinas, Arlene Gonzales, Voltaire Maycong, Junel Morales, Mary Ann Navilla. 10 scholars have graduated last school year and thus were replaced by first year students.

library and forget the thought of sweating out in the open during their free time.

CJs brace for press work Eden B. Rodriguez

Some 30 budding campus journalists (CJs) underwent training in preparation for school paper making, Sept. 27 and Oct.1 at the SMNHS computer laboratory. The training covered topics on news writing, editorial writing, feature writing, sports writing, editorial cartooning and photojournalism. Mr. Manolito Basilio, School Paper Adviser (SPA) of The Scroll was the resource speaker in all the topics presented via powerpoint. Outputs in the workshops were evaluated and subjected for critiquing for improvement. An interactive approach was done to ensure the involvement among participants. Mr. Basilio was also the resource speaker in layouting in the Divisional Training for SPAs

held at The Highlands Camp, Iba Zambales, Sept. 23-24. The training outputs also served as bases for the assignment of positions in The Scroll editorial board. From the pool of participants, four CJs were from Pundakit Elementary School with SPA Mrs. Novelina Villanueva and another four were from San Miguel Elementary School with SPA Mrs. Betty Jane Conjurado whose cartoonist in the said training (Rogene Dela Cruz) won first place in the DSPC held at San Marcelino Central Elem. School, Oct. 8-9. Like Dela Cruz, Jayvee Manalabe, this paper’s cartoonist who also bagged first place in DSPC will compete in the RSPC at Angeles City, Dec. 8-12.

Los AngelesSan Antonians

Four students continue to enjoy the financial assistance from Los AngelesSan Antonians through Mdm. Enrequita Evangelista: Rodelyn Tabon, Jenelyn Agasa (Third Year); Julie Mae Rafanan (Fourth Year) and Ma. Josefa Diaz (Second Year). Patrick Basilio, one of the recipients said, “Soon I will graduate and I can never deny the fact that the assistance extended by these generous benefactors has greatly helped in giving us the chance to finish at least high school. Our most profound gratitude to all of them; God surely blesses them a hundredfold.”

English Olympians named Kevin Joe Batac

Winners in the school level English Olympics were proclaimed Oct. 30 in the culminating program at the SMNHS Covered Court. The Best Readers (Readathon) we re Novely n Facu n, Ryanara Cayabyab and Gemma Falconit while the Best Spellers were Maricel Santos, A r jay Tor ref ranca and Gemma Falconit in first, second and third place respectively. The contest proceedings were conducted by Mrs. Josefina Jesyble De Leon and Mr. Romulo Canonizado, English teachers-in-charge. Quiz wiz’ were Eden Rodriguez, first; Joana Marie Julio, second; and Joana Grace Albior, third. There were some 20 finalists in the quiz bee. The quiz show was administered by Miss Leah Delos Reyes, English teacherin-charge.

Better than playing around. Students find pleasure in exploring the treasures of the

Ro d el M a n z a no, RC R au l Cañeda and James Robison placed first, second and third respectively outbesting 10 other finalists in Onthe-Spot Essay Writing. Judges were Mrs. Rosario Ramirez, Mr. Francisco Apurit and Mrs. Aubrey Domingo, English teacher-in-charge. Manuel Garcia, Ferly Lavesoria and Gracie May Gomez were named first, second and third best declaimers from among eight finalists . In the extemporaneous speech, Dave Torrefranca, Girlaine Sharra Gomez and Racel Galamay were the top three among 11 potential speakers adjudged by Mrs. Dolores Piocos and Mr. Manolito Basilio, English teacher-in-charge. The competitions were done in strategic time schedules, Oct. 29 and 30.

CJs on guard. Budding scribes are all ears and eyes being careful not to miss any of the concepts being discussed in the training-workshop.

Our efforts paid off - The Invaders Nicko Bell T. Fernandez

SMNHS Covered Court - The Invaders toppled five other senior year groups in the speech choir competition final encounter during the school level English Olympics, Oct. 30. Led by Racel Galamay and Ryan Jay Laurino of IV Narra, the choir members were teary eyed upon receiving the champ’s trophy, certificate and cash prize. “We are not expecting this because all the other groups were equally competitive; each showed unique creativity in interpreting the piece!” exclaimed Laurino. The disappointed second great, The Yakal Dreamers led by Jay Carlo Boado retorted, “We worked so hard in order to win but I think something went wrong.” “All six groups did excellently; the points were really close but only one has to emerge champion and the judges were really meticulous

especially with the interpretation criterion,” said Mr. Manolito Basilio, the initiator and English IV teacher. “The transition of The Bells (by Edgar Allan Poe) from childhood to death is clearly manifested by The Advocates; that was the weak point of The Dreamers who abruptly started morbidly,” commented Mrs. Michelle Mejica, one of the judges along with Mr. Gerry Balbuena and Mrs. Ma. Lilybeth Bacolor. T hi rd place with cash and certificate went to The Black Busters directed by Glen Mark Reutotar and Romalyn Appari of IV Molave. The bottom three in respective order were The Beginners (I V Molave), The Cleiszian Advocates (IV Narra) and The Phoenix Neofights (IV Yakal). The audience were in awe while the performers did their craft as they all aimed to win in the contest, the first ever in SMNHS.

The SCROLL accepts contributions, suggestions, comments or opinions. Send them to [email protected].

The Scroll

June-December 2008

LOCAL/NATIONAL NEWS

3

Mayor Lonzanida implements MRF ng Bayan RC Raul P. Cañeda Pursuant to the provisions of RA 9003 or the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, Hon. Romeo D. Lonzanida pushes for the implementation of the Municipal Material Recovery Facility a.k.a. MRF ng Bayan at Palapala, Barangay Pundakit, this town. Some local folks were apprehensive as this would only be another name or face for the dreaded land-fill proposed years back. Punong Barangay Rodolfo Evangelista explained that there is no need to fear because this program is only intended to solve the garbage problem in the locality; that each barangay has its own MRF site where garbage will first be segregated before it is taken to the MRF ng Bayan where the machinery for recycling will be stationed and that

no garbage from outside San Antonio will penetrate the said site. Accordingly, an information education campaign conducted by the Tourism and Ecology Committee was held in every barangay. This initial step aimed to make the people be aware of the concept of the law. A salient feature of the campaign was the emphasis on the penalty for those who will violate the law. Littering, throwing, dumping of waste matters in public places are just some of the violations cited. The project attempts to ensure the protection of public health and environment; utilize environmentallysound methods that maximize the utilization of valuable resources and encourage resources conservation and recovery.

Anchored on the state policy of adopting a systematic, comprehensive and ecological solid waste management program, RA 9003 sets guidelines and targets for solid waste avoidance and volume reduction through source reduction and waste minimization measures, including composting, recycling, re-use, recovery, green charcoal process, and others, before collection, treatment and disposal in appropriate and environmentallysound solid waste management facilities in accordance with ecologically sustainable development principles. “We enjoin the entire community in our crusade to combat the garbage problem for a cleaner barangay/town making it a better place to live in,” ended PB Waddy Evangelista.

RHU chief dies at 64 Niño Lester B. Dulay and Kevin Joe Batac At age 64, Dr. Rebecca LactaotaoLonzanida, wife of Mayor Romeo Lonzanida, died of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Sept 1. “A great loss on my part as a partner in service and matriarch of our family; with grief, together with my children, we have to go on life as usual for our future and continue serving our townmates especially concerning health problems for the general good of those who have less in life,” said Mayor Lonzanida. Dr. Lonzanida is the Rural Health Officer of this town. She was born on April 18, 1944 in Gerona, Tarlac. The first appointment of Dr. Lonzanida in public service was in Aug. of 1975. In her 33 years of public service, she had a lot of accomplishments as head of the Rural Health Unit (RHU).

She implemented nutrition programs in the municipality and made San Antonio the number one Best in Nutrition Town in the Philippines five years ago. It is also through her that this town is the only one in Zambales that takes care of Day Care children by medically examining them annually. During her time, the Municipal Health Center was erected - modern one, and was assessed as the best health center built by the Japanese International Coordinating Center (JICA). She spearheaded the building of a birthing center through her representation to the Sanggunian and to Cong. Antonio M. Diaz. She initiated Local Health Programs like immunization, deworming and medical examination of athletes and teachers and established a laboratory

for blood examination, urinalysis and fecalysis to cater to needy patients of San Antonio for a minimal cost. Under her supervision, health programs were fully implemented and rated as good. Acute Myocardial Infarction is a localized ischemic necrosis of an area of the myocardium caused by narrowing of one or more of the coronary artery.

Clarc Joeryl C. Jimenez

Ayala wrote, “Furthermore, 2007 revealed a sense of determination unlikely any seen in GILAS’ three years of operation, as it connected 642 public high schools to the internet, which is double the 333 connected in 2006 or a total of 1,654 schools connected since the start of the project in 2005. This is now benefiting some 828,000 students nationwide.” He continued, “Notwithstanding geographical constraints, the inaccessibility of some campuses, and the absence of infrastructure in certain areas to provide for a steady supply of electricity, telephone lines and internet service, GILAS was able to connect

garbage problem by starting from their own home-school first and foremost.

MSA launches Zero Basura Olympics Eden B. Rodriguez

GILAS continues to bridge digital divide Gearing Up Internet Literacy ang Access for Students (GILAS) continues to bridge the digital divide among Filipinos especially students who are in the countryside schools. SMNHS is one of the recipients of the project since it started in 2005. Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, GILAS Chairman stated in an accomplishment report: As a result of the concerted efforts behind it, GILAS received almost P49M in cash donations in 2007 or a 7% increase in the total amout of support gained in 2006, and P32.7M in computer donations, or an 86% increase in hardware support received in 2006.

Litter mound rescue. SMNHS students join the town in its crusade to conquer the

schools even in highly remote areas through the collaboration and firm resolve of all its stakeholders to provide a brighter future for our nations’ youth.” GILAS’ goals for 2008 include the connection of 1,000 additional schools, mobilization of P100M funds, and no region below 15% connectivity. “If not for GILAS, our school would have remained unconnected to the worldwide web,” admitted Ms. Venus Dumapay, ICT Coordinator.

Zero Basura Olympics is a race to conquer the garbage problem in San Antonio within 300 days. The Municipality of San Antonio (MSA) in coordination with the Tourism and Ecology Committee held a tree planting activity at Barangay Pundakit, this town, Aug. 8. The affair also signaled the continuing construction of the Municipal Material Recovery Facility or MRF ng Bayan at Palapala, Barangay Pundakit. The vicinity was

planted with different varieties if soft wood and hard wood species courtesy of DENR-CENRO Olongapo City to prevent soil erosion and preserve the aesthetic view of its surroundings. In support to this program, the San Miguel National High School (SMNHS) sent representatives to the tree planting activity: Mr.Francisco Apurit as teacher-in-charge and selected students from fourth year named Clemencio Navilla,Jay Carlo Boado and John Eric Caseres.

HB 4734 to raise teachers’ wage Mary Joy R. Parañal House Bill 4734, an Act Providing for Additional Compensation for Public School Teachers, which seeks a P9,000 hike in teachers’ monthly salaries to be carried out in installments over the next three years, is still pending at the appropriations committee. Mrs. Emelyn Lacerona, SMNHS faculty president asserted, “It has been a long time since we received our salary increase with actually only a few pesos; I think we justly deserve wage hike now.” GMANews.TV reported that militant teachers’ organization met with Department of Education (DepEd) officials and some lawmakers to discuss the proposed P9,000 salary hike for public school teachers.

In the same report, the Teachers Dignity Coalition discussed the proposed wage hike with DepEd officials Oct. 17, even as the group called on House Speaker Prospero Nograles to keep his promise of teachers’ compensation bills as soon as Congress session resumes on November 10. The bill, whose main authors are Gabriela partylist Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan and Bayan Muna partylist Rep. Satur Ocampo, was filed on July 9. Last September 29, members of the Teachers Dignity Coalition massed at the Batasan Complex to lobby for the passage of HB 4734 and other bills seeking salary hikes for teachers.

ES passes superintendency test, gets ASDS post in Tarlac City Division Gemma C. Falconit

It’s parents’ turn. ICT provided by GILAS is not only for students but also for parents who are willing to learn; they enrol in Project REPAL or Revitalizing Parents as Leaders which aims to make parents as teachers of their children at home.

Education Supervisor I (ES) in Elementary English and Assistant Schools Division Superintendent (ASDS)-OIC Madam Luz Cambaliza Arriola passed the superintendency test for this school year and she has received her assignment as the new ASDS of Tarlac City. Prior to her promotions, she started as an editor at Eastern Inspection Bureau, T.M. Kalaw, Manila; then as a classroom teacher at Sta. Isabel College, Taft Ave., Manila. In Zambales, she began her teaching career at St. Columban High School, San Felipe from 1978 to 1984. She became a public school teacher 1984 to 1992 at San Felipe Elem. School - West and ascended as Head

Ma'am Luz, the new ASDS and Tolitz, The Scroll adviser Teacher at San Rafael Elem School from 1992 to 1994. She served as the principal of Bobulon Elem. School from 1996 to 1997 and was transferred to San Felipe Elem. School - West from 1997 to 2003. She took her post as ES in

The SCROLL congratulates Madam Luz C. Arriola for passing the Superintendency Test.

English in 2003 until she received her promotion as ASDS of Tarlac City early October 2008. Besides passing the superintendency exam, she also received scholarship grants like the SEAMEO RELC Singapore Short Term Course in English for Business and Technology in February 2000. Her scholarship at Ateneo de Manila in 2000 to 2002 gave her an M.A. Degree in Educational Management. These and all other achievements ushered her to the ASDS position. Mdm. Linda T. Canonizado said, “In the soonest possible time, she will become an SDS too; that is because of her dedication and hardwork in the education sector.”

The Scroll

4

June-December 2008

OPINION

Gracias Gobernador S

MNHS now has a covered court where school programs and activities can be held. Thanks to Governor Amor Deloso. Long before, important school gatherings were held under the shades of the mango trees and more often than not, when meetings were called at daytime, some of the partakers, usually parents, would have to bear the unfriendly heat of the sun or the irritating drizzle when the weather was not that fine. This was the usual scenario during school assemblies because not all, like 300 to 600 parents, can be accommodated in a makeshift hall which is a two-classroom-fusion with the partition detached. More than half of the attendees would have to stay out of the jampacked hall. The school, headed by the principal, Madam Linda T. Canonizado never ceased looking for ways to remedy this problem. Together with the PTCA steered by Pastor Danilo Ambayen, the school frontrunners found their way to the office of Gov. Amor Deloso to lobby the request for a covered court. With the apparent earnestness in the entreaty of the PTCA, school principal and faculty members after a series of follow up, the honorable governor articulated his promise to grant the request. In his visit to the school during the 2007 Commencement Exercises in which he was the guest speaker, he saw the need for the realization of his promise. Although he discovered that SMNHS is just a humble school with not more than 600 student-population, he immediately ordered for the speedy start of the construction. A good man really never breaks his promise. A man who gives true regard and priority to the needs of his people - that is Gov. Amor Deloso. The project is not yet fully complete. It still needs finishing touches like electric lighting, flooring, and the students’ much requested basketball ring. By then, the school populace would be completely free to do whatever is needed that would help in the attainment of educational goals. Goodbye to the heat of the sun and to the annoying rainshowers. Rain or shine, school programs will be pushed through. And yes, a million thanks to the Provincial Government under the magnanimous leadership of Honorable Amor Deloso. Gracias!

e d i t o r i a l s

3

Studes view on inflation

1% of the 210 respondents who participated in a campus survey ranked inflation as the number one problem the country is facing at present. Inflation is a sustained and general increase in prices in all or nearly all of the markets in an economy. Price hike has always been with Juan Dela Cruz and it will be with him for as long as he lives. But today, more than ever, seems to be the worst of all time. Students feel and experience the current economic crunch which consequently brings hard times evident in their day-to-day struggle. As students, they have the right to receive financial support from their parents or guardians. In reality, they are only learners and they don’t earn salaries, only grades. But how can they earn these grades if they are not able to sustain their needs? Transportation from their house to the school especially if taking a walk seems impossible considering the distance? Enough food for their stomach to sustain the proper functioning of their brain? School supplies for the desired compliance of requirements? Normally, these situations are affected by inflation. Students have to budget the money that their parents or guardians give them. Who would say that students don’t care? With these and all, they eventually understand that they have to be resilient in hurdling the odds of today’s living. Knowing that poverty (26%), graft and corruption (19%), rice crisis (14%), and the peace problem (10%) are additional crosses beset upon the shoulders of the majority of Filipinos nowadays, students are becoming more responsible in using the resources or finances that they have and they show increased awareness of the ills of the society which, hopefully, they will in turn strive to make better for they are the inevitable heirs to it.

S.Y. 2008-2009 EVIE B. RODRIGUEZ Editor-in-Chief

RACEL A. GALAMAY Associate Editor

RC RAUL P. CAÑEDA EDEN RODGRIGUEZ KEVIN JOE BATAC NIÑO LESTER B. DULAY Section Editors

JAYVEE L. MANALABE Cartoonist/Artist

NICKO BELL FERNANDEZ, MARY JOY PARAÑAL, DANICA SERON JENNIFER RAFANAN, JOANNA GRACE ALBIOR, NESSA MARIE RULL CLARC JOERYL JIMENEZ, JESSICA CARIÑO, NADINE ZHAIRA CASANILLO VALERIE NAPULI, JEFFERSON PAJELA, GEMMA FALCONIT, MARICEL SANTOS JESSA LEE DANCEL, JULIUS EDWARD AGATON, ALLAN GAMBOA Writers/Contributors



Mr. MANOLITO B. BASILIO Mrs. LINDA T. CANONIZADO Adviser Principal I Dr. JOSEPHINE TUNGUL PERLITA CAMBALIZA-BASA, Ph.D.,CESO V ES I English Schools Division Superintendent

Ambivalent Duo

P

RC Raul Cañeda Niño Lester Dulay

inays are all over the globe offering their best services to the peoples of the world. Nurses, doctors, teachers, care-givers, domestic helpers, entertainers ( many of them), and what else? Sex workers? We can only mull over... Pinays can be and can do whatever in order to earn a decent living but the recent portrayal in a show over British Broadcasting Company’s Paul and Harry is indeed a blatant manifestation of how the Britons see and manipulate the Pinay character. The episode shows a Filipina maid being ordered by one of the main characters, Harry, to dance, gyrate and seduce Harry. It was a very horrible scene and even if the tv program is supposed to be a comedy, we bet that no Filipino bought that joke. In fact, it’s not a JOKE. According to the headlines, the Philippine embassy has already

Point Blank

True Pinay image

written United Kingdom’s media regulatory agency, the mayor of London, the secretary of state for women, and the television network to complain about the said tv program. In a certain interview, Philippine Ambassador to the UK Edgardo Espiritu criticized the skit as “gutter humor.” According to him, the show opposes the British government’s advocy in observing equality and respect for human rights. Filipino organizations have also started rallying in protest to the said show. Yes, Filipinos were enraged of this deeply offensive and flagrant show of how Pinays were pictured for all the world to see. Hermalditaness blogspot wrote, “Well, a comedy show will only be funny if the humor does not tend to degrade or hurt other people. Media should always know their

responsibilities and limitations. In this case, BBC went beyond the lines of comedy. Yes, they insulted the Filipinos with that racist episode BUT they also threw garbage and mockery to their own yard. It’s such a shame that they aired a video showing how they, the Britons, exploit their maids. Thus, the program also featured what kind of employers they are. Tsk! tsk! tsk!” But in a deeper analysis, if this is how the Britons see the Pinay, they should be having proofs wherein they got the idea for the show. We think that there is truth in the concept of the show and somehow BBC’s Harry and Paul can’t be blamed for it. So, pinays, think again. The taint of your image (which we do not want to believe is already there ever before the show) is now even worsened and affirmed. Pinay students in SMNHS, what can you say next?

Vicki’s thoughts

Manolito B. Basilio

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y former teacher now a coteacher lent me a book titled Apples and Chalkdust. At first, I thought that she doesn’t like it but I dismissed the idea knowing that her only child (a certified peyups) gave it to her; it must be a treasure! So I just convinced myself that she’s just lazy to read books at her age now. I was quite sure of it. Thanks Madam Jesyble. Apples and Chalkdust by Vicki Caruana is a compilation of inspirational stories and encouragement for teachers. As I began flipping through the pages, I just found myself writing down some passages that captured the deepest recesses of my being. Some reflections prick, others cut - deeply. Not that I feel guilty at the mirror book but I could see many teachers around who need to have such reflections; that includes me, of course. I would like to share some of these thoughts that Vicki wants us teachers to imbibe and would therefore make us imbue even just a little idealism in our chosen career:

1. Teach today to be the favorite teacher tomorrow. 2. Give your best even when you feel your worst. 3. Take the time to get to know your students by heart, not by reputation. 4. Stay healthy not just for yourself. Your absence affects a multitude! 5. If you don’t have passion, find it! Only then can you light that same flame in your students. 6. Creative teaching doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Look for ways to use the resources available to you to enhance your teaching. 7. There is more than one right way to teach. 8. If you set yourself up for success, you’ll also be paving the way for your students to succeed. 9. Is electricity in the air in your classroom? If not, check the power supply first. 10. In order for you and your students to be communicating with each other, you both need to be on the same page. 11. The passion to teach is a unique

Congratulations to Jayvee Manalabe for winning first place in Editorial Cartooning, DSPC 2008!

gift. Even if others don’t always understand your enthusiasim, rest assured that they’ll be pleased with its results. 12. The teaching of children should not be sacrificed in favor of paperworkever! 13. Want your students to stick to their tasks and finish what they start? Make sure your own perseverance shines through! 14. Being willing to give a little extra to help meet a student’s need is what makes a good teacher great. 15. Set your students up for success by setting realistic expectations for them. 16. Some of your students may not look like winners on the outside. So take the time to find out who’s on the inside. And I’d like to end with this: The best asset of any school is its dedicated teachers. When people complain to you about what your school doesn’t have, gently remind them of what, and who, it does have to offer. Nice thoughts, isn’t it fellow teachers? Thanks for the enlightenment Vicki!

The Scroll

June-December 2008

Education and price hike

Spicy Spy

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PTCA Concerns

up with their needs: food, school supplies, contributions, etc. Education is at stake with the mere presence of these two inseparable problems. In the Philippines, 14% of the population is functionally illiterate. This means that even though some of them could read or write a little, they could not use this to effectively communicate with others and gain enough knowledge. Unfortunately, majority belong to the low earner class of family who unluckily cannot afford to bring their siblings in a quality school. If only our government could be

The challenges of our times with, to borrow the words of a famous Filipino fictionist, ‘navel gazing’ that we cannot see anything else? Eventually, we have become more concerned with the situation of the school and the students. We give service to the school while establishing good and harmonious relationship with others. The litmus test of our school is its ability to deal with the financial problem in order to sustain its needs and effectively continue its vital function in educating our children. Despite the odds, let us be firm in our resolve to make SMNHS a better school now and in the years to come. We have to stand on guard on whatever that may put the school into the verge of erratic existence.

Without doubt, since God wills everything as an instrument for preserving justice and restraining disorder, the school should urge her members to engage in worthwhile activities that would prod her to greater heights. It should utilize its powers to beat the challenges of the times so that students will witness its magic to transform not only in its physical aspect but also in affecting the lives of those who are within her sphere of responsibility. My sincere appreciation to those who unceasingly give their support to all the programs, projects, and other related endeavors of the PTCA. Special thanks to Cong. Antonio Diaz, Gov. Amor Deloso and all the other benefactors of our students. God bless.

Taking the other way

Head Words

Mdm. Linda T. Canonizado Principal I

ne of the favorite places of some students is in the internet/video center and it so happened that I was with my friend, the proprietress of the center. Nowadays,students wouldn’t mind where they are especially if they are with their peers. Some are funny; some are weird; some others are insensitive. Pretending not to mind them, I focused my auditory sense on their conversation: “I’m tired!” “Naiinis na ako, lagi na lang akong pinapansin.” “Absent tayo ganun din lang ang gawain eh...” These are some of their comments (and sentiments) they keep on saying. Implied from their conversation, these are what teachers often tell them:

Feed thy spirit... The Lord keeps watch of us...

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urged to look for remedies to prevent inflation it might lessen the risk of having a great number of illiterates. The announcement of crisis in the financial status of our country is due to rapid downfall in the economic aspect of our nation. According to some, massive graft and corruption among the elected government officials is the main root of all these problems. Many students believe that if only the administration would monitor the political system in the country, these problems, like poverty, inflation and illiteracy, could be band aided if not totally solved.

Rev. Danilo E. Ambayen PTCA President

hroughout nearly two years, the condition of the school has radically changed. Some projects were fully accomplished while some are still left undone like the covered court in the front ground of the school. Indeed, we cannot just ignore problems. In fact, these are the challenges of our times - to go beyond. Sometimes there are arguments which in turn become a barrier in realizing the plans for the school. Credibility likewise almost touches the ground and unity is obviously overlooked. What really is our role in the school community? I hope we don’t become so narcissistic in our views that we can no longer see beyond our own school or are we so preoccupied

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Dear Editor

Evie Rodriguez

ducation is the best weapon against poverty. This does not seem to hold true these days. I would like to establish a connection among poverty, inflation and education. Inflation is one of the major reasons why poverty is intensely felt today more than ever. Some of my classmates would sometimes just sulk in a corner pretend not to be hungry during recess and lunch time. I can feel their burden. They are financially hard up. With this usual predicament of students in school, how far can true education go? Inflation makes it hard for almost every student to cope

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5

OPINION

his remarkable psalm of David presents an appropriate mindset for us in the face of the terrible calamities that confront us. There certainly are times for vigorous action on our part; but here David, who was hardly a passive phlegmatic, reminds us that there are also times when our best action is to wait silently

Why are you late again? If you are late next meeting you might as well not enter the room, okay? Why are you not in uniform today? Where is your I.D.? You , remove your earring! Why are you in slippers? You are supposed to be in your shoes! You are not in proper uniform! Class,bring out a half sheet of paper and answer this! Bring one whole sheet of paper and number your paper 1-25. Enumeration type. One... No cheating! Class, copy this in your notebook and I’m going to check it later. Go to the board and solve this! Class, go out and have your P.E.!

No project, no exam! No participation, no points! No research work, no grade! Are these words from teachers really irritating and tearing the ears of the students? Students also get tired hearing the same words again and again. See, many of them do not care anymore whenever the teacher speaks. This is alarming. My dear fellow teachers, I know that you were born to be teachers - creative to your craft and compassionate to your students. Think of other ways to motivate your learners for them to improve and be interested in their studies. To our beloved students, please act like one and follow the school policies. Study hard.

Psalm 62:5-8 God: Our refuge

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y soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. and trustingly for God alone to bring deliverance. He is after all God, and we are not. He is worthy of our complete trust and reliance. For David to be able to enter into this attitude of serenity presupposed that he followed his own advice—namely, he “poured out his heart before God.” This advice is almost identical to

that offered by the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:6,7: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and sup-plication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Mailbox

Covered court granted Dear Editor

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n last years issue, I have read about the letter “Wanted: Covered court.” It expressed the dire need for a venue within the school wherein important occasions and programs can be held without delay or hassle because of space problem or weather condition. Now, at last, the wish is granted. Yes, I can still recall the speech of Gov. Amor Deloso during the 2007 Commencement Exercises expressing his desire to help our school. True enough, he is a man of word. It is not only the covered court that he fulfilled but also the repair of some classrooms. It was indeed a blessing to receive these gifts from the government through the able leadership of Honorable Amor Deloso. The covered court is really a big part of improvement in SMNHS. We now have a session hall wherein we can hold big gatherings. It will be very useful especially for PTCA meetings, student assemblies, campus concerts/shows, contest venue, conventions, and other programs. It will likewise be functional for ordinary student activities such as practices for presentations, P.E. activities, or even outdoor class sessions to break the monotony of the usual classroom atmosphere. And to top it all, Intramural Meet will never be the same again. Whatever the weather will be, it will not stand in the way of pushing through every event. Basketball games will no longer be played off campus. We just can’t wait to see it totally finished. Phase one though is already done. Nevertheless, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the school administrators, the PTCA and the faculty for constantly searching for ways on how to give us, students, the best that they can offer. I know that there are still a lot of lacking facilities and equipments but I am really glad to note that things are getting better in SMNHS as the years go by. We can not have all in an instant. To Gov. Amor Deloso, thanks a million. I am sure that he will continue helping our humble school. In return, we will try our very best to take care of everything that has been bestowed upon us.



James E. Robison SSG Vice President

Don’t litter Dear Editor

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ime and again, littering is hardly controlled within the school premises. The absence of appropriate sanction, constant monitoring, and implementation of policies concerning this problem could be the reason. And yes, the willpower to really put things in proper perspective counts most. One’s ways are reflective of his upbringing. Why is cleanliness hardly maintained within the campus? Are students in SMHS like jungle savages who throw their wastes just anywhere? Everybody knows that SMHS has no tidymen(janitors) who would look after the cleanliness of the school premises. The government can’t afford to give us one nor the school populace can’t afford to pay one (for not everybody is open to collection of fee for such matter). So, who should maintain cleanliness of the school surroundings? While there are many students who observe the proper way of disposing trashes and take the initiative of picking up seen wastes around, there are still a few who recklessly throw their wastes just anywhere and pretend to be unmindful of the eyesores around. Insensitive they are. Oftentimes, teachers are heard saying to one or some students, “Pakipulot mo/n’yo naman ang mga kalat, please?”. The nerve. The shame. Do we still need to be told when what are obviously seen around are pieces of paper, candy wrappers, and the like? Insensitive. Our school is our second home. In fact, we consume most of our conscious time here than in our own homes or anywhere else. Isn’t it just proper for us to really make it clean all the time? How about devising a scheme for zero waste management? Or garbage segregation? Or post reminder boards like “dispose wastes properly” in waste prone areas? Or to the least, impose fines to “insensitive” students? Yes, everybody must have been informed of the “Anti-Littering Ordinance.” This can be one of the best solutions to solve the problem. We appeal to all the functional student organizations of the school to work collaboratively for this cause.





Your opinion counts. Send it to [email protected]



Patrick G. Basilio IV Narra

The Scroll

6

OPINION

Rico’s ‘back’ rub Rico John Dulay (Alumnus 2007)

The trouble with English

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ood command of English among students and professionals alike is barely observable in the world of communication today. I still remember the words of one of our good teachers here: He who speaks English owns one-half of the world. One of the problems confronting San Miguel National High School is about the students who can’t read and speak English adeptly. This is not only true in SMNHS but also in the entire public schools in our country. Why is this happening? Our grandparents can speak English fluently even if they have not finished the elementary level. I’m just wondering why many high school students and graduates could hardly express themselves in plain, simple English. Not even a simple, perfect sentence! I speak basing from my keen observation. I admit I too am one of them. For me, the cause of difficulties of some students in speaking English is the lack of attention of some teachers in the elementary and high school levels. When I was in elementary, I heard from one of my teachers that even if he/she does not teach us he/she will still be receiving his/her salary from the government. I think it is wrong. The government pays teachers’ services; therefore, they should teach the students well. Students flock into the public schools because they can’t afford the high tuition fee in the private school. But because students don’t pay tuition fee in the public school does not mean that public school teachers would turn a blind eye on their most important function – that is to teach effectively. Let me not put all the blame on the teachers. The other side of the coin is the students themselves. English pitfall basically lies on their attitude toward the subject. Some would rather choose to play around with whatever that pleases them than to develop or improve their skills in English. They seem to abhor the idea of speaking, writing, and reading in English. Why? Because they hardly understand and they don’t dare exert effort to understand! They are not active in class discussions because they are mum. What should be done then? Is it too late to rectify the predicament? The parents must advise their children to prioritize their studies. I am calling the attention of my fellow students to please give your best in studying as I do. Education is the key to a successful life. And English would give us the spark to it. We should always remember that the only wealth that our parents can give us is education. And to our teachers, please encourage the students to learn. Give us the kind of education we deserve. Help us to own at least one-fourth of the world. “The future truly depends on you, dear teachers”.

‘Bayang Magiliw’

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June-December 2008

s each word comes out of my mouth while singing the song of the land, Lupang Hinirang with all my heart, I feel the blood running in my veins through my heart and brain; and I remember the efforts of our heroes who freed our beloved country from the cruelty of conquerors. “Ano ang ating Pambansang Awit?” my friend asked a grade five pupil who, without any second thought answered “Bayang Magiliw!” and some others around agreed. It’s so disappointing to know that patriotism is not fully cultivated in the early years of formal schooling. This is even aggravated by SMNHS’s practice of only-once-a-week-flag -ceremony. In years of studying, I have learned so much. One important lesson that I have instilled in the deepest recesses of my heart and mind is to love our country not only in words but also in action. Yes, patriotism that is. The simplest way of showing it is by singing the national anthem with pride, with correct lyrics and proper melody. It is annoying to see some of my schoolmates who do not even respect the Philippine flag and our National Anthem. One time, I caught them laughing while singing the Lupang Hinirang; some were doing their own monkey business, and most of them did not care to sing at all! I also will never forget my schoolmates in gradeschool; I often heard many of them sang the National Anthem not only in different tunes but also in different hilarious lyrics. Being Filipinos, we are responsible of what we are. It is our obligation to sing well and properly our National Anthem, to respect our National flag, to remember our national heroes who did free us from our conquerors, to love our country, to protect our country’s heritage and to make every Filipino be united. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Antonio Luna, Marcelo H. del Pilar are some of our famous heroes who showed love for our country in their own unique ways, not to mention their lives which they willingly offered just to give us that sweet freedom we now enjoy. Thus we can also love our country by taking full responsibility of being a true Filipino. Kyla sang Lupang Hinirang very well prior to the Pacquiao-Barrera match. She regained the faces of those who did the same job as she did. I am a little apprehensive as to who will sing in the Pacman-Dela Hoya bout. But that’s another story, another chapter of this piece of writing. My point is clear. Know more about Lupang Hinirang. Review Philippine History if you must. And then sing the Philippine National Anthem by heart. I beg you, please!

Campus Pulse

Project PleaSE is sustainable RC Raul Cañeda, James Robison, Manuel Garcia

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here is no doubt that the ability to speak English helps one to become more competitive in the challenges of learning and more prepared in the world of higher learning and of work. Cognizant to this, teachers and student-leaders need to work hand-in-hand to help students begin to recognize the importance of being able to express their thoughts and ideas in spoken English. This is then in consonance with PGMA’s Return to English Program and DepED’s efforts (through the Mentoring Program for example) to revitalize the use of English in schools. “Project PleaSE” means Please Speak English. This project is based on teachers’ and student-leaders’ reports and observation that many students find it really hard to express their ideas in English especially during class discussions in the subjects that use English as medium of instruction (English, Math, Science, MAPEH and TLE). Through Project PleaSE, students will have the opportunity or chance to use the language. Language theories such as that of Giles’ Accommodation Theory, Schumann’s Acculturation Theory, and Chomsky’s Universal Theory all boils down to the notion that exposure to the target language (English) is one of the best and fastest ways to learn the language. In Project PleaSE, the English Club dares to venture into making SMNHS

an English speaking community. Basically, the project aims to develop among students the awareness on the importance of the ability to speak English and helping them cope with their difficulties in the language. Likewise, it encourages students to speak English always inside the campus thereby fostering a school where spoken English is part of its culture.

After barely three months of implementation, the project has received both positive and negative comments. Students were asked whether they find the project beneficial or otherwise... I think Project PleaSE really helps us students in developing our skills in speaking English. These skills will help us in the future. It prevents the students from being ignorant with regards to speaking English. – Rodel Manzano Even if it is a policy in English class (no code-switching), I think it doesn’t work. Still students do not follow it. They’re so hard-headed. –Niño Lester Dulay

ability of the students to speak English and that, other skills like reading, listening and writing are developed too! – Jerrica Espiritu Project PleaSE is not followed! Many students don’t care about it! They say, “We are Filipinos so we speak Tagalog!” - Valmae Ambayen Project PleaSE seems not to be working well so we are going to reinforce its implementation! –Ryan Jay Laurino I really don’t know what Project PleaSE is all about! I cannot remember that the president of English club implemented it! I really don’t know it! –Marga Ayap Many students are very shy to speak English! -Novelyn Facun Project PleaSE was made for students improvement; since it is the universal language, it is the best way towards better communication with our fellowmen outside our country. Let us continue supporting it. -Girlaine Sharra Gomez The English Club still believes that it will work. It all depends on the attitude of students and teachers. Success does not happen overnight, so keep on!

The rice crisis M

y family eats NFA rice. It is much cheaper by 30-50% than the commercial rice bought in the market. My parents can feel the pang and fang of rice crisis. Why is this happening? The present crisis on rice production demands for immediate, sustainable pro-people solutions. The government should immediately increase its support to the National F o o d A u t h o r i t y ( N FA ) i n i t s procurement of palay, dismantle the rice cartels and impose a moratorium on the land-use conversion of agricultural land, all for the benefit of our local farmers and the Filipino people. - The University Student Council-Diliman (USC-D) NFA, at present, is importing rice because it has persistently failed to perform even its minimal procurement of 12% of the total palay production. NFA has only procured less than 1% of palay production in the last cropping season, leaving most of the tradable rice into the hands of big rice traders, particularly the so-called Big Seven cartel who now dictates the price of rice in the market. The reduced role and intervention of the NFA in the rice market allows private traders to control the trade both inputs and produce, thus influencing the movement of prices in trade and marketing of rice. The USC added, ”We must resist impositions made by international creditors like the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank to bring down

Project PLEASE improves the

rice tariffs, increase food importation and pursuing reforms to liberalize trading in the country’s main staple by not subsidizing the agricultural sector. Policies of globalization on rice i.e. trade liberalization (allowing rice importers), privatization (clipping NFA powers), and deregulation (lifting of government production and price support), which the government started to implement in the 1980s, has worsen the state of food security, not only in the Philippines, but in the

of rice farms to commercial uses and conversion of crops from rice to export winners, which has put the country in constant state of crises in its rice supply. Landlessness and the absence of government support through production and price subsidies leave millions of Filipino rice farmers at the mercy of big land owners and traders. That is why for a long-term solution to this predicament, a genuine agrarian reform must be implemented. Furthermore, the government has practically stopped subsidizing local agriculture for decades, and can be seen from the meager budget allocations received by the agricultural sector. Worse, the funds intended for this sector and other social services are being drain off to corruption. The increasing inaccessibility of our basic staple has made the lives of many Filipino youths and their families harder and the opportunity to make their lives better difficult to reach. With the increase in the price of rice, other basic needs will relentlessly increase in cost, thus making the lives of many Filipinos increasingly more difficult. (Thanks to the following sources of information: The UP Diliman Student Council, Asian Development Bank, Ibon Foundation, International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the World Bank) Jennifer Rafanan, Danica Seron Nadine Zhaira Casanillo

The increasing inaccessibility of our basic staple has made the lives of many Filipino youths and their families harder and the opportunity to make their lives better difficult to reach. rest of the world. Such schemes of deregulation also lead to the oil cartel which continues to manipulate and bloat the prices of oil products. Rice production remains small-scale and productivity is low. Philippine average rice yield per hectare is stagnant. Since the 1990s, the country’s rice yield has average at 3 metric tons per hectare even as it records yearly increases in production. According to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the required production for the Philippines to sustain food security is 5.4 metric tons per hectare. This situation is even aggravated by the increasing instances of conversion

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The Scroll

June-December 2008

7

FEATURE

Just be ready

Valuable opportunities What is happenig to our students? Where is discipline? It seems that discipline is already forgotten because no punishment is enforced everytime they are reported violating the school rules or policies. Of course, in the real classroom there are many instances when students will test the limits, break the rules or behave in ways that are inappropriate. These are valuable opportunities for teaching them about what is expected or what is the ‘right’ behavior. -Mrs. Josefina Jesyble De Leon

Teacher, teacher! Teacher, teacher how are you? Most of the students are talking about you! -Mrs. Fabia Balaoing

Home is where...

I have been so disturbed lately. I can not focus well on my lesson. I nearly have the feeling of being unwanted. After my how many months of stay here in SMNHS, I already am feeling at home. I like my environmment and my working area. I may be uneasy with my hard headed advisory class but that can be mended anyway. I was just a little upset when I will have to go back to JESMAG where I come from. It’s not that I don’t like it there but you know how it feels when you think you are not liked anywhere. I still am here now in SMNHS waiting, hoping and praying that I wouldn’t be transferred anymore. -Mrs. Aubrey Domingo

Great Wall

We belong to one family full of respect, but it seems like this respect is slowly vanishing because some are becoming self-centered. A great wall seems to have been reconstructed like the one in China. -Mr. Romulo Canonizado

Contentment vocabulary Harassment, graft and corruption, war and price hike. These are the happenings in our world today. I am sure you know what happened to Holly Ann Escobar, Meralco versus GSIS, the fight between the government military forces against MILF in Mindanao, gasoline, rice and flour(bread) hikes. Terrible problems abound. What a noisy world. Is it still possible to have peace nowadays? Of course. We should not be overpowered by hopelessness for in every conflict corresponds a solution. Contentment is the answer. If we include this in our vocabulary then maybe everything will be right. To be contented means to be satisfied with what we have and stop craving for what we do not have and can never have. -Mr. Francisco Apurit

I was out of the scene for a couple of months because of health problem but I really had a great time with my self, family, friends and all the people that matter to me. I am thankful I have overcome this test of life. God is so good! You too may go through what I’ve been. God forbid! Be careful. Just be ready; you can never tell. I’m just glad mine is over. Now I am well. Now I am back! -Miss. Venus B. Dumapay

fare freeze

What’s happening with our tricycle transport system? All we know is that the price of gasoline went down and still going down. Logic says that tricycle fare should follow the trend of gasoline price, if not freeze. What’s happening to the minds of the people behind the fare hike? Just asking. -Mr. Gerardo Balbuena

Hope within

Life gets harder with each passing day. People get wilder, meaner, harsher, rougher, lazier every day. Money gets more powerful now more than ever. We are really living in a ‘dog-eat-dog-world’ where apathy and selfishness dominate. But there is still hope. I believe. -Mr. Manolito Basilio

Zigzag ride I rode a bus home which was full-packed with passengers so I had to occupy the seat intended for the conductor beside the driver. To my horror, when we reached the “zigzag”, the driver picked up his cell phone and started texting while driving. I immediately apprehended him! He simply replied, “Sinasagot ko lang!” The NERVE!! GRRR!!! How irresponsible can a person get!?! -Miss Leah A. Delos Reyes

What’s happening?

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eachers thoughts count much to The Scroll. Here is a special page that features mentors’ view on anything under the sun. Each teacher in SMNHS was simply given a very general question to answer: What’s happening? Teachers are very much filled with ideas to share, basically on issues that they think are affecting the majority - family, school, or even national issues! Read on what they want you to know straight from them. Teachers are indeed a great source of wisdom...

Overtime angst Overtime! I missed my Math class this morning because a teacher extended his class time not just for 5 or 10 minutes but 45 minutes! Imagine, he almost spent all of my time… So please fellow teachers, observe time discipline. -Mrs. Emilyn Lacerona

Glaciers scare Last night my daughter was watching television. She changed the channel and I overheard from the kitchen the preview of the news of what is now happening in Iceland where glaciers are melting. I told her not to change the channel and waited for the news to return. The news was telling that the glaciers are melting a kilometer every year because of GLOBAL WARMING, and it means danger and flood to the low places of the nearby region or wherever. What can we do about this? What if it really causes a great flood? Oh my. . . I don’t know how to swim! -Mrs. Aida Hibaya

Teach woodwork

I ’ m h a v i n g d i f fi c u l t y teaching T.L.E I & III in the area of Industrial Arts because I lack the knowledge in the said area which includes drafting, woodworking, radio mechanics, and electricity and the like. HELP ME PLEASE… -Mrs. Jane E. Callo

Keyboard mastery Knowledge in computers gives a student an edge over the others. Most jobs require basic computer skills. If you are a high school graduate, you can land a job as a call center agent in addition to having excellent voice projection and communication skills. But the most basic in computer literacy is knowing where the keys are and knowing which finger strikes which. I propose one meeting per week spent on typing tutorials for second year students to prepare them for their junior years. This way, when they reach third year, they will be more abreast in striking the keyboard. Teaching computer would be much easier and more hands-on activities are done. -Mrs. Rosario Ramirez

Fieldtrip dilemma Students are much agog about the field trip especcially those who are on the verge of failure in their subjects. Their minds are already set that it will be their saving grace (to pass) that is why many are no longer meeting the subject requirements. If this will be the trend, what is the use of giving students something to accomplish when everything can be bailed out with a trip to nowhere? I don’t want to buy this idea the nth time around.I would rather stick to the subject requirements than to pass students just because of the educational tour... -Mrs. Dolores Piocos

Plain and simple

Economic problem is truly affecting the world. Why is life so hard now more than ever? Everyone can feel it I suppose. Everybody is complaining about prices of goods and services. Is there still a chance for a return of the good old times when life is just so plain and simple? I know I can only wish... -Mrs. Leticia Alumpe

First, Second... I admit I sometimes find it hard to strike the balance between school and family life but it doesn’t mean that I tend to give lesser attention or importance one over the other. School provides me “bread and butter” while my family gives me the reason to go on. Both are indispensable; both are my homes –the only difference is that, one is first, the other second. My priority follows the same ranking. How about you? -Mrs. Margarita Lacuesta

Careful, careful I am bothered about my doctor’s diagnosis. I am diabetic, so I decided to consult a specialist in Olongapo City General Hospital. Now, I am more careful and conscious of my health especially when it comes to my food intake. I am having trouble adjusting my diet but I have to, so I can enjoy life longer. Everyone must do the same. Learn from my experience. -Mr. Rogelio C. Ballon

Between the lines What’s happening? I don’t know! Let me tell you a story… One chilly afternoon, a man stumbled over a snake lying almost lifeless on the ground. He decided to take the poor creature home and place it before the fireplace to save it. The farmer and his young son, watched as the snake slowly moved then arched his body, ready to strike the child. In an instant, the farmer grabbed a piece of wood, struck the snake and crushed its head. If you know how to read between the lines… that’s what’s happening! -Mr. Noel Alber

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The Scroll

8

FEATURE

Mahal, Mura and Tawad Kevin Joe Batac

S

he’s not Mahal; she’s not Mura; according to her, she’s Tawad more popularly known in the campus as Tiling. And who doesn’t know her? She is the tiniest personaality our school ever had since the merely 3.5 feet Christian Sebastian who is now an alumnus. When I first saw her, I thought that she belongs to the gradeschool because she is just a meter stick in height! But boy! She is a freshie! Tiling loves singing and danciing. Actually she has danced in two programs here in SMNHS:during the “Linggo ng Wika” where she dressed and danced like “Marimar” and during the Intrammural Meet last September in the Blue Advvocates team presentation and was adjjudged as the best among the three competiing teams. She was the group’s lucky charm. Tiling is not growing up. Will she ever? She must be in a dwarfism condition. According to Wikipedia, it is a medical condition in humans characterized by extreme small size. The most widely accepted definition in medical biology for a dwarf is a person with an adult height of less than 4 feet 10 inches (147cm). In older popular and medical usage, any type of marked human smallness could also be termed dwarfism. The most common cause of dwarfism is achondroplasia, a bone growth disorder responsible for 70% of dwarfism cases. Just like Mahal and Mura, Tiling

did not grow physically. They are like people who don’t leave childhood. As to Tiling, she can do whatever she wants and enjoy more her childhood life, longer than an ordinary one does. She may have not matured in time, but she said it’s okay because she can enjoy her life more freely without hurrying. Actually, she looks like a todddler who speaks with her little voice. She has curly hair, and she is kind, industrious, and loving. She’s diffferent with her size but she is like everyone else. Tiling is a happy persson, but behind those smiles are the sadnness she is hidiing from eveeryone. Tiling sometimes. feels to be out of place, when she is not treated like rest. She has li mit attions, of course everyone has, but what’s so disappointing to her is that she cannnot do some things like what others do. She does not have the freedom that many people are experiencing. Her parents try to protect her from any harm because she is fragile. Sometimes, she wishes to be anoother person but she has realized that God can do everything and anything. So what God has made of Tiling for sure has a purpose. Why God made Tiling like that is something she should be thankful of. Tiling or Christine Joy Borja. The little girl and will always be a little girl.

Over-wired people How to tell if you are addicted to technology

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June-December 2008

ome experts say excessive cell phone use is a sign of technology addiction. John O’Neill, director of addictions services for the Menninger Clinic in Houston said, “These over-wired people are so focused on their gadgets, they neglect relationships with other people.” Communication aids such as texting and e-mail may actually hamper our abilities to have more important face-toface conversations. A research paper, published in 2007 in the Jour nal of Clinical Psychopharmacology by a psychiatrist at Tel Aviv University, recommended that Internet addiction be regarded as an extreme disorder on par with gambling, sex addiction and kleptomania. O’Neill admitted that there is not enough research to establish whether excessive technology use qualifies as addiction, but cited that people who can’t sit through a movie without checking their cell phones or make it through dinner without peeking at their Blackberries as potential addicts. “Technology can become more than a passing problem and more like an addiction,” he told Clara Moskowitz of LiveScience. He listed some danger signs:

“You become irritable when you can’t use it. The Internet goes down and you lose your mind. You start to hide your use.” W hether or not it quali fies as addiction, O’Neill said, our allconsuming relationships with technology are getting in the way of more important relationships — with people. “I believe that technology has benefited us greatly,” O’Neill said, “but my concern is that many of us have taken it too far, and it has become a substitute for those necessary face to face conversations.” Eugene Samoza, director of the Addiction Research Center at the University of Cincinnati, said, “Basically I think probably one could become addicted to technology.” But even if you are a techno-junkie, it is possible to change, O’Neill said. “The first thing to do is take a long, hard look at how you are using technologies, and then to start to set some limits,” he said. “You have to take off a couple hours and make those hours important enough that you don’t allow yourself to be interrupted. I think we should have certain rules. We don’t break up, fire people or break traumatic news to people via e-mail or text message.”

How to identify products made in China Sky Skater

My friend Tonya from UP Diliman sent this to me via email which she likewise received from Amar Torres who wrote, “This letter is from a lawyer, Katrina Legarda; this must be reliable.” Dear friends, The whole world is scared of China made “black hearted goods”. Can you differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China? Let me tell you...the first 3 digits of barcode 690 or 691 or 692 are MADE IN CHINA. 471 is Made in Taiwan . This is our human right to know, but

the government and related department never educate the public, therefore we have to RESCUE ourselves. Nowadays, Chinese businessmen know that consumers do not prefer products “made in China”, so they don’t show from which country it is made. However, you may now refer to the barcode, remember if the first 3 digits is: 690-692 then it is made in China. 00 - 09 USA & CANADA 30 - 37 FRANCE 40 - 44 GERMANY 49 - JAPAN 50 - UK

Made in Taiwan. Barcode with 471 as

the first three digits are products from Taiwan; beware of those products with barcode beginning 690 or 691 or 692; they are from China.

The Scroll through the years (from p.1)

DSPC 2000: Second best school paper (second best editorial page, second best news page, third best sports page, fourth best devcom, second best features/literary and first in layout). It advanced to the RSPC landing in the top 20 among nearly a hundred school papers in the region. DSPC 2002: third best school paper (third best news page, second best editorial page, fourth best feature page, third best sports page and fifth best layout). Again, it went to the RSPC and it did have a good edge among others. DSPC 2003: First best school paper (second best feature page, third best editorial page, first best sports page, first best layout/page design). In the RSPC, it bagged third place in editorial page. DSPC 2004: Third best school paper - bracket A (third best news page, second best editorial page, fourth best features page, first best sports page, and second best layout/ page design) In the same year, The

Scroll scribes also grabbed the First Highest Pointer School in English Individual Contests and consequently emerged as the Overall Champion. DSPC 2005: Third best school paper (first best news page, first best editorial page, and second best sports page). In the RSPC, it copped third best editorial page, seventh best feature page and fourth best school paper in Central Luzon. In the NSPC, The Scroll placed second best editorial page, seventh best news page and was declared as the fourth best school paper outbesting hundreds of school papers nationwide. DSPC 2007: Fourth best school paper (third best news page, second best editorial page, fifth best feature page, fourth best sports page, and sixth best layout/page design). In the same year The Scroll scribes also won fifth place in radio broadcasting and scriptwriting (first best technical application and third best anchor). In the RSPC, it landed sixth best editorial page.

As years pass by, the chance of winning in press conferences gets harder as more and more school papers likewise turns to be competitive as advisers become aware and educated on the conventions, t rends and innovations of school-paper-making. The Scroll takes pride at sharing its simple way of keeping an informed community as well as its achievements in the past years and beyond. It shall not waive its commitment of informing, entertaining, and competing in the spirit of justice and fair play. It will strive to improve further and be abreast to the current waves of responsible campus journalism for the common good especially for SMNHS. From the humble beginnings, The Scroll has bravely pursued the path towards excellence in campus journalism and will keep the legacy burning and serve as a beacon for others to emulate thus creating a world of well-informed people.

Nicko Bell Fernandez

Dear Mrs. Vincken,

Editor’s note: This letter was written in response to Mrs. Vincken’s kindness. She is the major character in the story titled “Truce in the Forest” by Fritz Vincken. The story recounts that peace can be possibly attained even in the midst of war.



Dear Mrs. Vincken,



October 27, 2008

You rescued me from sure death. Your very accommodating home healed my badly wounded arm as fast as 8-12 hours. I can’t thank you enough for the kindness you have shown. Your family, especially your son Fritz, has that exceptionally hospitable disposition. When I was in your home, I felt like I was in my own far-away home too - so warm, so restful, so full of love and peace. I will never forget that fateful Christmas eve when I came face-to-face with whom I’ve considered as enemy. Your motherly voice made us be at peace all of a sudden. I felt my heart leaped with joy during those moments. You might have not noticed it-but I was intensely happy - really! At the back of any mind, I wished that that moment would last forever. Mrs. Vincken, you were instrumental in the truce between us-Americans and Germans - to be at peace w/ each other at least for Christmas. I know that it is a great lesson for us and we will all reflect on it in order to make each day a Christmas day so that peace and not war will happily reign in the entire world. A million thanks may not be enough Mrs. Vincken but let me say it anyway. . . Thank you very much. Sincerely yours, Jayvee

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The Scroll

June-December 2008

Go on living...

LITERATURE

Skyskater ‘08

we will all die. some die young, others even die in the womb, or at birth; some at middle age, the rest so old. it doesn’t matter how long or short we live. it is in living the kind of life that we want that makes the difference.

9

Daddy’s push E

Julius Edward Agaton

verybody wants to go to school because it is the key to reach our ambition in life so that we can be successful and eventually be able to help our family. Before the school year opened, I was so nervous to go to school because I couldn’t read, added the fact I was still at this point, i am in a quandary thinking how life recovering from a car accident. But my father gave me the would be in this little world i am in right now. it is strength to face this challenge. so small that i can hardly breath and move. it seems “Don’t lose hope; study hard so that you can have a like life is so shallow and ordinary. none. nothing. nil. better future,” father told me. That empty. the routine makes me sick. with people who are advice made me strong enough to “I was so conceited and with small minds... huh, sorry for my conquer any problem that will cross meanness but it is just the way i feel appropriate to nervous; my path in life. I promised to myself describe them. i think i am becoming one of them. fearful. that I will keep on doing what is right I couldn’t afraid. apprehensive. frightened. terrified. worried. so that God will bless and guide me as read. anxious. ME. I go on my way to pursue my dreams. And so I just found my self in I was still i want to explore. gain. again. but i still can’t get the courage to go on. i paused. i this school, enjoying the learning recovering thought. a lot... life sets so many conditions. but it is like that. i know i have to live environment and the friends I’ve the kind of life i desire. i have to go... living... not dying. found. I am really glad that I am here from a car in San Miguel National High School accident.” because I believe that the teachers here are doing their best to prepare the students cope up with the battles of life and help them to realize their aspirations. Let me make my self as an example of a student with true determination. Despite of my being physically challenged, I don’t give up and I know that I too can become Stuck. successful just like anybody else. Remember that Can’t go on any further, life is full of challenges and we need to be firm in seems so. spirit and be determined to reach the end of the How I wish someone out I feel pressured. road come what may. there will come. James E. Robison It’s depressing. And yes, thanks daddy. I love you. Rescue. Me. I’m helpless. You know where o waste time for nonsense activities is a noYou see me ok but oh... no for me. I love working on I am. yes, I am ok. worthwhile activities rather than doing things You know what I do. I’m broke but I’m happy I just have to do things I wouldn’t benefit from. I’m poor but I’m kind You think that I can. on my own My favorite day is Saturday. Not that there are I’m lost but I’m hopeful But you’re wrong. even if it looks like no classes but because I am being productive on this Baby! What it all comes down to is that Thanks. I really can’t. day. I, together with my cousins, go to the number Everything’s gonna be fine, fine, fine one resort in town, Punta de Uian, and pull out I’ve got one hand in my pocket weeds and clean the surroundings there. Our Lola And the other one is giving a high five… Skyskater ‘08 Norma, the resort owner, in her desire to help us in -Alanis Morisette one way or another, would always want us to do such work - to clean and beautify the surroundings, and in turn, she would give us our weekly allowance in school. Oh yeah, every now and then we clean the place; we are so happy. Our Lola Norma always reminds us of the right things to do in order to be More than anyone else, my mother is the most important person in my life next to God. good. She told us that we should She raised us with all her heart. She is a woman of courage, compassion, humility and be aware of the things happening determination. around. She also told us what to One day our neighbor asked mama, “How do you discipline your children? They do to keep our habits controlled. are hard headed.” Afterwards, mama answered confidently, “God gives me the I always keep in mind these strength. There is nothing to worry about.” When I heard that, I admired and loved words from our Lola and try my mother all the more. She has a magnetic aura that makes everyone look up to her. live up to the lessons she taught Whatever problem or circumstances would come our way, we are ready because us. Our Lola often reiterated to we have a ‘Super Mama’ who is always there to us what a clean place could do. guide and care for us. And God’s blessing, her She said that a clean place could make a lot of difference efforts are not in vain. Mama is unique! She is and advantage. She likes a place that is always clean so a mother beyond compare! I am truly proud of she assigned us to clean in the resort every Saturdays and her. Sundays. And what’s best above all is that she never runs I have watched many beauty pageants. out of snacks to offer whenever we go to report there for They often asked common questions like, work. Our generous Lola gives us 200 pesos each for our “What is the essence of being a woman?” They simply arrive at one allowance. All she wants is to help us financially so she is answer: “A woman can give birth to a child.” doing such magnanimous acts but she makes sure that we For that, I’d like to thank my MAMA for giving me life and for her learn while we earn. endless love for us. MAMA, you are the best mother in the whole wide Now, I consider this activity really worth my while world! because aside from cleaning, I also earn money. So, I LOVE YOU. beautifying and cleaning a place is what I used to do Yasir Ahmed during weekends. How about you? What do you do? Is it worthwhile, too?

It’s worth the while

T

Be aware of the things that happen around.

Bamboozled

Hand in my pocket

Whatever Mama, you’re such a winner!

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The Scroll

10

World Pinoy punch files Compiled by Kristian Batac

Gabriel “Flash” Elorde is regarded “the greatest world junior lightweight boxing champion in WBC history in 1974”; for defending his title in 10 bouts for seven years, making him the longest reigning world junior lightweight champion ever; and for being inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame and International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993. He won a total of 79 bouts in his professional boxing career. Pancho Villa is considered the greatest flyweight of the century; for becoming Asia’s first world champion in boxing; and for being inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame and International Boxing Hall of Fame. He was one of only four Asians enshrined into the New York-based International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1994. He was also inducted to the World Boxing Hall of Fame. Ceferino Garcia was the heaviest Filipino ever who became a world-boxing champion. Known for his bolo punch, he captured the world middleweight title on October 2, 1939 when he knocked out Fred Apostoli in New York. He defended his crown against top rivals twice (Americans Glen Lee and Henry Armstrong) before losing his title in May 1940. Before he switched to the middleweight division, Garcia became a welterweight champion when he knocked out boxing legend and war hero Barney Ross in 1937 and Henry Armsstrong in 1938. In 1977, Ceferino Garcia was inducted into the Ring Magazine Hall of Fame and into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1981.

For five years, Luisito “Lindol” Espinosa has held two different world-boxing titles: the World Boxing Council (WBC) featherweight crown and the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight belt. He was feted the “Athlete of the Year” award twice.

Gerry Peñalosa won the World Boxing Council (WBC) super flyweight crown on February 20, 1997 and was able to defend it three times until August 1998. In June 1999, he knocked out a Mexican fighter to clinch the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) North American junior bantamweight title in Mississippi. Geronimo “Gerry” Peñalosa is a Filipino boxer in the bantamweight division. He is the current WBO bantamweight champion. He snatched the title via knockout win over a Mexican boxer at the age of 36 years. Peñalosa has never been knocked down in 60 professional fights. Manny Pacquiao, one of the finest Filipino power punchers, is a former International Boxing Federation (IBF) world super bantamweight champion and a former World Boxing Council (WBC) flyweight champion. He is the current super flyweight champion becoming the first Asian to win three championship belts in three different weight categories. He was the first Filipino to clinch a world boxing title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena where he floored Lehlo Ledwaba of South Africa in the sixth round to bag the IBF super bantamweight title in June 2001. Before this, Pacquiao knocked out a Thai champion in the 8th round of their match in Bangkok on December 3, 1998 to win the World Boxing Council (WBC) flyweight title. Its official, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is the greatest Asian champ of all time. By knocking down David Diaz on the ninth round on their June 29, 2008 encounter in Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, Nevada and becoming the new lightweight champion of the world, he now holds the record as the “First Asian to hold 4 belt championships in four different weight categories.”

June-December 2008

SPORTS

Boxing: A way out Niño Lester B. Dulay

I

am a boxing fanatic. How I love to see someone’s face bleed when a big knockout punch hits a face especially if it is a Filipino boxer who does it. It seems like a lift in me knowing that a Filipino is beiing hailed all over the globe for his might, strength, and witty strategies in putting down an oppponent on the ring.Manny Pacquiao made the Filipino people known to the world. He is trully an outstanding example of that Filipino spirit of determination, resiliency, and wit. The Mexicans are simply amenable to this claim. They could hardly defeat Filipinos on the ring that seems so favorable and homely to Filipino boxers. Is it really? Or is it just true to ‘Pacman’? No doubt, Pacquiao has turned to a multi-millionaire after winning in a series of bouts. His determination is out of question and so as with his faith in God manifested by his signs of the cross and the rosary. Somehow, these

manifestations help him see victory through and through. Boxing has made him an instant world celebrity. Now, the boxer has turned into an in-demand, high-paying commercial endorser, actor, and even a recording artist! Lucky punch huh! His family is simply thankful of him. Now an air

say, many of them are not as lucky as Manny. Many have retired in their first attempt while some others insisted - to the point of losing not only their own hopes but of their family’s as well. Death on the ring has been the fate of many Filipino boxers and it appears like none has been given justice. This is the folly of boxing. Yes, boxing, just like a coin, has two sides. A boxer may become rich or poor (or poorer than usual), lucky or not, dead or alive, and what else? How many more boxers will be as fortunate as Manny Pacquiao? Maybe in the years to come, one or two. Or none at all. And how many more boxeers will continue trying their luck with the hope that they would also have the same luck as Manny’s? Undoubtedly, many. Many Filipino boxers who think that boxing is the only way out of poverty. And how many more will end their lives in boxing, not to menttion on the ring? God forbid.

Pinoy boxers think that it is the only way out of poverty.

Stand Point

T

of pride and conceit emanates from his personality. Well, that is inevitabble for someone who has reached that far. Manny knows how to manage his blessings and his boxing-acquired resources. Now, boxing sounds like gold to many Filipino boxers. Like a knight in a shining armor, boxing is thought as an avenue towards greatness and wealth. Many Filipino hopefuls venture onto the precarious world of boxing. Sad to

Ways of sportsmanship

Racel Galamay

he conventional requirements of polite behavior, properties of conduct or good manners are attributed to this term called etiquette. Just like any other field of human interest, sports necessitates etiquette or to put it in a simpler word - discipline; and its counts most. It makes the difference. Simple ways of showing sports etiquette are: a) being punctual in practices to show enthusiasm to improve the skills which need to be honed; b) avoidance of vices to restore and maintain the body’s good condition; c) giving each other in the team a push or encouragement to excel while keeping up the virtue of humility and determination; d) obedience to the instructions and

decisions of the coach and/or referee; e) refraining from uttering offensive words before, during, or after the games and practices; f) knowing the complete rules and mechanics of the game before getting into it; g) arriving in the venue of the game minutes before the game starts; and above all, h) the gracious

it. There really seems to be a problem and something must be done about it. Ask this to yourselves athletes, “ Do I have sports etiquette/discipline? By and large, etiquette is likely to be taken for granted not only by the persons who are engaged in sports but also by those who are into different activities such as the arts, academic tourneys and the like. This reality is indeed very disheartening. It is therefore imperative to revive if not to re-orient ourselves with this essential ingredient for it is of great importance and meaning not only to sports but to life itself. Skills and talents are not enough to accomplish our goal, etiquette completes it.

Sports etiquette is of great importance not only to sports but to life itself. acceptance of defeat to the losers while a toast of meekness to the victors. Sports etiquette is an indispensable factor that determines the value of what we get out of the sweat that comes out when we play. Sports enthusiasts know it but still, they don’t put it into practice; they neglect

Intrams 2008: An analysis James E. Robison

I

t is truly one of the most soughtafter school events. Students get to unwind from the usual hustle and bustle of academic strain within our four-wall confinement. But what really is Intrams for most students? Ideally, it is an event wherein students show their abilities in different sports categories. But for the majority of the school populace, it goes beyond that. F o r t h e m , I n t r a ms mean opportunity to strengthen bonds among schoolmates and/or team mates for that matter and the chance to reveal hidden skills in a particular sport of interest. The events included in this year’s Intrams were the team presentation, Search for Mr. and Ms. Intams 2008 and games featuring volleyball, sepak takraw, track and field, badminton and chess. This year there were three teams (Yellow Smashers, Red Warriors and Blue Advocates) who

clashed over the other and tried to clinch victory. The Blue Advocates were really great. Why do I say so? Great because they were able to clasp the overall champion title for the 2008 Intramural Meet. It was so hot and terrible encounter yet a good fight among the teams. No one gave up

and to know who has the ability to win. A phrase “sports lang” is often heard from those who are not lucky enough to win as well as from those who are lucky enough to win the favor of the Olympian gods and goddesses. Whenever I heared this phrase, I could see that they were happy as smiles and laughter radiated from their faces whether they won or lost in the games. Sportsmanship lingers in the campus and the reason for holding this school activity, as for me, is 100% accomplished. Good job for the people behind it, yes, the Sports Club headed by Mr. Romulo Canonizado, MAPEH Coordinator. Congratulations. Although the weather, seems like always annually, unfavorable that games need to be postponed one after the other, one important lesson was learned by everybody: It is not the winning or losing that matters; it is how you play the game.

The spirit of ‘friendly fight’ is very encompassing and engrossing. in the fights. All of the partakers in the event gave their best and team members were very supportive to their respective bets. Shouts, jeers and cheers were reverberating all around. The spirit of “friendly fight” is very much encompassing and engrossing. This sportsfest measures the talents of the students for them to know their limitations, to know who’s the best

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The Scroll

June-December 2008

11

SPORTS

Sprint champs to race in Zonal Meet Jefferson Pajela and Clarc Joeryl Jimenez

Marivic Ramelo: I will win life’s race!

John Eric Caseres: Run for your life!

Edchelle Fulguerras: Make my day!

SMNHS’s champion runners Marivic Ramelo, Edchelle Fulguerras and John Eric Caseres will advance to the Zonal Meet after leaving a big leap behind their contenders from T.R. Yangco Catholic Educational Institute, Luzon Technical Institute, Valiant Educational Institute and SMNHS Extension during the District Meet at T.R. Yangco Memorial School, Sept. 19-20. Ramelo, Fulguerras, and Caseres -all fourth year students are consistent champions in the District Meet in the past years. “I vowed not to lose since this is my last year to compete as a student of SMNHS; I want my school to be proud of me,” said Ramelo. “800 meter dash is quite long but my opponents’ determination to reach the finish line made me exert some more speed only to find out in the end that it was only me who reached the end,” she continued. Fulguerras on the other hand was dubbed “Milo Girl” for her unusual technique in dealing with her co-

racers. She started not so fast giving the other runners get the edge but she released her momentum when she saw that they were losing their energy until they could no longer sustain to catch up with her. “I knew from the start that I will win because I have seen so many techniques from my former experiences in the Milo marathon, and true enough, my strategy in this fight worked!” exclaimed Fulguerras. Caseres competed in a series of rounds: 100, 200 and 800 meterrun. He was able to sweep all the rounds without much effort. “They only seem strong and fast but in reality, they are not,” said Caseres describing the sprinters from other teams. “Hanggang porma lang sila,” he added. All three said they practiced hard by running along the stretch of the shoreline every morning in Barangay San Miguel. They were confident that they will again win in the Zonal Meet as they continue conditioning themselves to be more prepared for the bigger fight.

Blue Advocates’ dance-mix snares Best Team Presentation award Evie B. Rodriguez

Team Presentation again and this time, the Blue Advocates seized the trophy.. Last year, the Intramural Meet started with a team presentation which replaced the traditional cheering competition. This year, the same austere presentations were shown. Students enjoyed more in preparing for their team presentation than in cheer dances. They didn’t mind even if it took them until night practicing. As a result, well organized talents and great opportunity for more students to join were observed. In this year’s team presentation, the Blue Advocates reigned supreme. With their unique style, grooves, costume and music mix, they, despite having the fewest participants, captured the taste of the jury: Mr. Ricardo Evangelista, Mrs. Michelle A. Mejica and Mr. Ju-Rey R. Foronda.

Smashers mate foes in finals Racel A. Galamay

Dave Torrefranca of the Yellow Smashers outsmarted all the aspiring checkers as he used his Sicilian opening to beat Jonathan Manalabe and Joey Santos, both from Blue Advocates in the chess finals, Sept. 20. Torrefranca, a senior, defeated his opponents with 18 moves as his Queen finished the business. Manalabe and Santos admitted that they really had a hard time putting Torrefranca down as his moves are hardly predictable. “They are both good but they need to eat a lot more rice before they can beat me,” said Torrefranca. “Joke!” he added.

The longest and the toughest. The Blue Advocates show their synchronized foot

and hand works with complicated body movements in an almost 10-minute presentation adjudged as the best. “We admit their presentation was Mrs. Jane Callo observed that the Red Warriors’ and Yellow Smashers’ more difficult; a lot of complicated, team presentation didn’t seem to fast movements and formations were be catchy. However, there was done; there is no point for comparison sportsmanship in the clash and the because ours was a very simple Blue Advocates shook hands with the presentation,” explained Junalyn Lateral from the Yellow Smashers. two other teams.

Are they crazy? - Pacman (from p.12)

smaller fighter, in this case Pacquiao, ends up victorious. “It is not the size that matters but the fighting heart,” wrote boxing analyst and North Cotabato Vice Gov. Manny Piñol who went for a knockout victory for Pacquiao. Pacquiao, now in the US gearing up for the highly anticipated match that could gross $100 million in earnings, couldn’t believe what’s going on. “Are they only after the publicity?” he reportedly asked. Pacquiao said he wouldn’t enter into a fight if he thinks there’s no chance of winning, a sentiment being shared by his trainers led by Freddie Roach. The Nevada State Athletic Commission is the only body that has jurisdiction over the fight, and not the GAB or even the World Boxing

Council since there’s no title at stake. The GAB is the government body regulating professional sports in the Philippines, and included in its powers is the issuing of licenses with the power to revoke, too. Keith Keizer, executive director of the NSAC, told www. insidesports.com that NSAC had “approved the fight” and is only body that has “jurisdiction over the fight.” Keizer said any cancellation of Pacquiao’s license will not have any “effect or impact” on the NSAC decision allowing Pacquiao to fight Dela Hoya in Las Vegas Lawyer Rodrigo Salud, the WBC founding secretary-general, said in recent reports that the cancellation of Pacquiao’s license by the GAB “cannot be done unilaterally and without a proper hearing.”

Squeezing brains out. The two checkmaters, Bryan Ringor and Jullar Sagpan of

SMNHS prove their wits the best as they send other chess masters in the District into early doom.

Sagpan, Ringor quell district chess masters Racel A. Galamay

Jullar Sagpan and Bryan Ringor, chess wizards of SMNHS overpoweered the wits of local high school grand masters in the District Meet, Sept. 19-20. Sagpan and Ringor found themselves face-to-face as only the two of them were left to contend in the final match. Chess whiz’ from TRYCEI, LTI, Valiant and SMNHSExtension all got check mate in the elimination rounds. “I never thought that Bryan will be my final contender considering that we belong to one school but we had to play the match anyway, so that a champion could be determined,” remarked Sagpan. “But I knew that I would outsmart him because I have learned his moves well during the

elimination round in the school level. Although he is a tough contender, Bryan just couldn’t learn my tricks and could hardly read my mind so I could just play with full concentration and ease,” bragged Sagpan. “I am already in fourth year so I have just relinquished my throne to him as the next chess master in SMNHS, he being in second year,” jested Ringor. “Honestly, Jullar is really good, but sometimes he is being boastful and overly confident; that might put him into defeat in his future games and would have an early retirement so he has to work on his attitude too,” advised Ringor. Sagpan was proclaimed champion chess player in the district during the awarding ceremonies, Sept. 20.

Ami, Pascual, Asiao to join district sepak team Eden B. Rodriguez

Sepak takraw players John Allain Ami, John Paul Pascual and Jefferson Asiao were among the selected players for the District Team to compete in the Zonal Meet at Bobulon Elementary School, San Felipe, Zambales, Nov. 13-14. The three sepak frontliners from SMNHS were matched with SMNHS Extension in the championship game during the District Meet at T.R. Yangco Memorial School, Sept. 1920. The Extension school emerged victorious making the Main School settle on the second place. “Extension School players are already former Zonal Meet players but that was the time when they were still students of the Main School,” recalled Ami. “So I still feel like the title did

not go to others because we are both SMNHSs anyway,” he added. “T he “k ickers” f rom the Extension School have ball control and it seemed like they were really focused unlike the other teams who just thought of winning to the extent of losing focus on the game; but given enough time for more practice, our players could actually outbest the Extension School players,” commented Mr. Gerry Balbuena, SMNHS-Main sepak takraw trainercoach. The three, along with two others from Luzon Technical Institute and seven from the Extension School were chosen by Mr. Johnny Paje, the Extension School trainer-coach.

Dela Hoya

Pacquiao

“It is not the size that matters but the fighting heart.”

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Blue Advocates lead Intrams ‘08 with 645.2 pts

Accumulating a total of 645.2 points, the Blue Advocates led the overall standing among the three competing teams until the end of the Intramural Meet, Sept. 19-20. The Blue Advocates went frantic upon being proclaimed as the overall champion. Shouts and cheers lingered in the school open field as Mr. Romulo Canonizado announced the overall scores. Mrs. Rosario Ramirez, one of the Team Managers of the Advocates said, “I have witnessed how they gave their best to beat the Yellow Smashers and Red Warriors in almost all the events.” The Red Warriors bagged 607.5

Sports insidE Sprint champs to race in Zonal Meet /p.11

points while the Yellow Smashers copped 499.5 points landing second and third great, respectively. The Advocates’ victory started with their grooves and moves in their team presentation in a dance remix in which they showed different unique moves with their ‘lucky charm’ named ‘Tiling’ a.k.a. Christine Joy Borja. In their dance, they were able to please the jury who arrived at a unanimous decision in the Advocates’ favor. However, their representatives were not able to grip the crown in the

search for Mr. and Ms. Intramural ’08 in which Yellow Smashers’ Leo Gerrad Marc Lazaro and Sports Club’s Romalyn Aparri were adjudged winners. The Advocates’ candidates Criselle Lynne Macomb and Robert Aniceto settled as 1st runner-up and as 2nd runner-up respectively; Macomb also captured the Best in Talent award. In the games, the Advocates’ Joey Santos tried all his known tricks to bring home the crown in chess match but he failed to beat the Smashers’ chess master Dave Torrefranca who smartly

anticipated most of Santos’ moves. Jack Sardeña and John Rannel Agasa bagged the golds in high jump and 100-meter run adding up hefty points for the Advocates chest. Niniemei Rafon and Carmina Fernandez trampled the Smashers and Warriors duo in badminton girls division while John Rannel Agasa, Ian Pascual and Russel Cariño moved their heads and kicked all the barriers up to the finals and won - additional gold points for the Advocates. In addition to the winnings of

The SCROLL

SP RTS

Vol. xi No. 1

June-December 2008

Lazaro, Aparri crowned Mr., Ms. Intrams

the Advocates, their volleyball team captain George Bautista with the cooperation of his teammates walloped their way to the championship match and thus brought home the victory to their camp. The campus was field with noise as the advocates clapped and shouted that made the Red Warriors and Yellow Smashers deaf and mum. The overall champion’s trophy was received by Mrs. Josefina Jesybel De Leon, team manager of first year Blue Advocates. Other team managers of the Blue Advocates were Mrs. Fabia Balaoing for second year, Mrs. Rosario Ramirez for third year and Mr. Noel Alber for fourth year.

Eden B. Rodriguez

Sports insidE Boxing: A way out of poverty /p.10

Nessa Marie Rull

Intramural icons. Leo Gerrad Marc Lazaro and Romalyn Aparri with their proud smiles in this year’s search for Mr. and Ms. Intramural Meet.

Leo Gerrad Marc Lazaro and Romalyn Aparri, from Yellow Smashers and Sports Club respectively, were adjudged as this years Mr. and Miss Intrams in a pageant at the SMNHS open field, Sept. 10. John Allain Ami of the Red Warriors and Crisselle Lynne Macomb of the Blue Advocates, Robert Aniceto of the Blue Advocates and Cassandra Reyes of yellow Smashers, and Jay Carlo Buado of the Sports Club and Imee Luz Sales of the Red Warriors landed as first, second and third runners-up respectively. Ami and Macomb who both did a singing stint grabbed the Best in Talent

while the Best in Sports Wear award were snatched by Lazaro and Aparri who were in a surfing and horse backriding attire respectively. One of the judges, Mr. Ricardo Evangelista enunciated, “If only Ami did well in the question and answer portion, he should have won the title; Lazaro did very well! Congratulations!” The jury was composed of Mrs. Michelle Mejica from San Rafael Technical Vocational High School San Felipe; Mr. Ju-Rey Foronda from Zambales Academy, San Narciso; and Mr. Ricardo Evangelista from San Nicolas Elementary School, San Antonio.

Are they crazy? Basketball off-campus no more

- Pacman

Manny Pacquiao was simply laughing off what’s considered as a late, illadvised and desperate attempt to have his Dec. 6 fight with Oscar dela Hoya in Las Vegas called off, Abac Cordero of the Philstar News Service wrote in his article. “Are they crazy?” was Pacquiao’s immediate reaction, according to someone very close to him, to those calling for the cancellation of his boxing license. Rufus Rodriguez, a congressman from Cagayan de Oro, suggested that Dela Hoya is just too big and too strong for Pacquiao, and the lawmaker is against the fight. Saying he was concerned with Pacquiao’s safety, he has asked the Games and Amusements Board under chairman Eric Buhain to try to stop the fight by canceling Pacquiao’s boxing license. But it may be a little too late. The fight contract has already been signed, and tickets to the 17,000seat MGM Grand Arena being sold out just hours after organizers started selling them. Dela Hoya, 35, stands 5’10 1/2 and has a reach of 73 inches while Pacquiao, 29, stands 5> 6» with a reach of 67 inches, a very big difference in boxing. It won’t be the first time however, such a disparity would be seen on top of the ring, and in some instances, the

Are they.../p.11

I

n the past Intramural Meets, of discussion in nearly every nook basketball has always been and cranny of the school vicinity. played out of the campus Everybody seems to really love this because the school has no court game. It will be loved all the more in where the game could held. This SMNHS because students can play it school year, basketball was not in the covered court every now and then, rain or shine. included in the list of games Long before its that were officially played sports construction, Intramural for the annual Palarong Pampaaralan. Next year, editorial Meet officials had to make request for permission to it will be one of the most sought-after game. The first ever use a basketball court in a nearby plaza basketball tournament will debut or in the Youth Center. Then players, in the newly constructed SMNHS along with the teacher-game-officials, had to go out of the campus for the Covered Court. Basketball is considered as a game. What’s so unnerving is that, major event in the Intramural Meet. students could not feel the presence of Most of the students can relate the game during the Intrams because well when this sport is the subject

only a very few student-spectators could watch the excitement of the clashing teams. N o w, f r e t n o m o r e . T h e covered court is here to shield SMNHS from this deprivation. The school can now discover and produce the next top players in the PBA or NBA for that matter. Who knows? It may be too ambitious but dreams as they are can be realized even by the ‘smallest’ of all men. Just like the covered court, it all started with a dream, a wish, an attempt, a request. Now it is standing proud; its arms wide open for students’ development. Thanks to the provincial government under the benevolent leadership of Honorable Amor D. Deloso.

De Guzman represents SMNHS in Mutya ng Palarong Pambayan Mary Joy Parañal

Since the Palarong Pambayan was originally scheduled prior to the Intramural Meet, no one was yet qualified to represent the school for the Mutya quest. With this, Miss Intrams 2007 Almira Anessa De Guzman, a fourth year student was chosen by the teachers and principal to represent the school in the search for Mutya ng Palarong Pambayan at T.R. Yangco Memorial School, Sept. 19. De Guzman’s personality and exposure plus a non-conventional talent via an interpretative dance to the song of Joey Ayala titled Lumiyab Ka were her most potent edge over the other candidates representing the three other secondary schools in the district. Judy Ann Canda from Luzon Technical Institute was proclaimed Binibining Palaro while SMNHS’ bet, De Guzman, settled as second runnerup. Her escort was Mr. Intrams 2007 Manuel Garcia. “My experiences in the previous pageants and the activities and shows like The Awakening in school helped me face bigger crowds like that of the District Meet; it was a good source of strength and confidence which I greatly need in my plan to join in future beauty contests,” revealed De Guzman a.k.a. Ara. “She did a good fight; as for me, she has the most beautiful face and body; she has to give more emphasis on improving her projection and ability to answer questions more fluently,” revealed Mr. Ricardo Evangelista, one of the judges.

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