bella swan,

Literary (Submission): Maybe Someday*

7/30/2014 08:41:00 PM Media Center 1 Comments

(A sequel to Distance)

“Seeing something from so far away get a little closer every day…”

I saw you with her today as I was walking to the school gate.

The org meeting ended earlier than usual. I was thankful to be going home before six o’clock but the moment I recognized you, I wished I stayed in and left later.

You were sitting beside each other on one of the stone benches. There were a lot of people around but it looked like you had eyes only for her. It seemed like she was telling you something very interesting because you were listening intently. You had on that crooked smile, the one that adorably crinkled your eyes.

I recently heard about you two. You know how fast word gets around. Someone was kind (and insensitive) enough to tell me. I remember nodding and going back to doing my Algebra homework because I didn’t know what else to do. I didn’t care then. At least, I thought I didn’t. But no matter how many school works I do and how many org projects I get myself into, I still kept thinking about it—you and her. I couldn’t forget it and it bothers me. And now, this. Proof that it’s true.

“Thinking that I want to make it mine…”

I saw her lean closer to you, bump your shoulder playfully for reasons I don’t know, want to know, or want to think about. I saw you put your arm around her for a split second. It seemed like a comforting albeit friendly-flirty gesture, one that surprisingly (and annoyingly) tugged painfully at my heartstrings.

I know I have no right to feel this, whatever this is. Can you really blame me, though? I used to believe that you’d never like me. After all, we’re much too different. But even if you belong with the jocks and hang out with the “cool” crowd… even with our classmates awkwardly teasing us, you reached out. You asked me to help you with schoolwork. You talked to me about anything or anyone. You made me smile silly and laugh out loud. You sent me sweet and thoughtful messages. You were just there so even if I tried very hard not to, I (and everybody else) got used to the idea of “us.”

“I’d run for you if I could stand, but what I want I can’t demand, coz what I want is you…”

And then, without warning, you just stopped. Just when I began making time for you despite the million and one things I have to do. Just when I started wondering what “this” was, what “this” means. Just when I started listening to my friends who tell me to give “it” a chance, to see beyond the teasing and the joking. Just when I was seriously thinking that there was or there could be “something” between us.

“And if I can’t be yours now, I’ll wait here on this ground…”

So I went on with my life as usual. Rather, tried to. I can’t or maybe I just don’t want to yet. I think there is still a place in my heart for you. There is that hope that we’d pick up where we left off. It has always been you. I think everyone knows that. Except you. And, as much as I want to, I cannot tell you… because you haven’t asked and you probably won’t.

“’Til you come, ‘til you take me away…”

Today, however, seeing you together made me realize that maybe it’s time to accept that “this” was nothing but mixed signals and wrong expectations, nothing more than an “almost-but-not-quite.”

I looked ahead, walked past the two of you, and firmly told myself that right off the bat “this” was not meant to be. I have to accept that “you and her” makes so much more sense than the “us” that never was and never will be.

“Maybe someday.”


“I try to ignore what you say. You turn to me, I turn away…”

I was with her today when I noticed you walking towards the school gate.

I know you usually went home late because of org meetings or group projects or whatever requirements. But I still hang out by the stone benches after classes, with some of my friends or teammates before training starts, hoping to catch a glimpse of you. Overkill, probably, since we’re classmates. But that’s all we have lately. We’re back to square one. Hi’s and hellos. Brief smiles. Serious school stuff. Awkwardness and silence.

I was about to leave when she arrived with her friends. She sat beside me and started talking about their Art project. Or materials for PA. Or both. Something about a movie. And food. I’m not sure. I wasn’t interested in what she was saying. I put on what I hope was a polite expression. I tried hard not to show how distracted I was. Wishing you were the one sitting beside me. Talking to me like this.

You’ve probably heard about something between us. Word gets around here fast. Then again, maybe you haven’t. Maybe you’re too busy to even hear about it. To be honest, I don’t want you to find out. I don’t know why, I just don’t. Even if there really is nothing between us—me and her. Even if you won’t care whether or not there is.

“But Cupid must have shot me twice…”

She leaned closer to me. Bumped my shoulder playfully to get my attention. She pouted and said I wasn’t listening. I chuckled and put my arm around her to appease her. Some of her friends smiled knowingly. They’ve been telling me to give her a chance. It’s logical. And sensible. But I don’t want to. She’s not you.

I know what happened or didn’t happen between you and me is my fault. But I tried. Really. I reached out. I shut out the teasing. I talked to you about anything out of the blue. I loved it when you smiled at the silliest things. When you laughed at even the corniest jokes. I asked for help with schoolwork even if I didn’t really need it. Chatted with you, sent you messages. I want you to realize that I am… was… I could be there for you.

“Thoughts of you invade my head, truths are written never said…”

But no matter how many times I thought about it, I knew you would never like me as more than a friend. Even if everyone was saying otherwise. We were too different. They argued that opposites attract. Maybe. But I know you had a lot more important things to do than wonder why I do those things. You won’t look beyond the teasing. You won’t believe that there was or there could be something between us. I felt it was hopeless. And useless. So I stopped. Before I fell even harder for you.

I tried to move on. Kept myself busy with school and sports. Forced myself to stop liking you. Thought about liking other girls. But I can’t. I always go back to you.

“And if I can’t be yours now, I’ll wait here on this ground…”

I know I screwed up. Big time. I know I don’t deserve another chance. But if you and the gods of fate would be so kind as to give me one, I would grab it in a heartbeat. I’d make it up to you. I’d show you how much I care for you. It has always been you. I was just too afraid to full-on take the risk. Too scared to ask you if I could be the one for you.

“’Til you come, ‘til you take me away…”

As you walked past without even a glance at my direction, I know it’s going to be difficult. I know you’d find it hard to believe me. But even if “you and me” doesn’t make much sense to you, I promise to try and make it the best “us” we could be. I really, truly hope you’re willing to try with me.

“Maybe someday.” / by Bella Swan

*Inspired by Griffin Peterson’s Maybe Someday

filipino,

Literary: Puppy Love

7/30/2014 08:33:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Alam mo, nakakainis ka. Ang hilig mo mang-asar. Palagi mo na lang akong tinatawag na Duwende, o kaya Chinese, o kaya Sadako, o di kaya naman ay Duwendeng Sadako mula sa China. Nakakainis, akala mo perpekto ka. Ikaw nga itong tumatawa na lang bigla kahit walang nakakatawa. Natatawa rin naman ako kasi bungal ka! Tapos nasa isip mo puro Pokemon, Ninja Saga, Yu-Gi-Oh, Double Cell at iba pang laro na hindi ko maintindihan. Mag-aapir lang tapos sisigaw tapos magtititigan kayo ng kalaro mo. Laro na ba yun? Paano naging laro yun?

At ang pinaka-ayaw kong ginagawa mo, e yung pagkatapos mo akong asarin, manghihiram ka ng lapis sa akin! Kung minsan pa nga hindi mo ibabalik yung hiniram mo o kaya may kagat na yung pambura!

Pero natutuwa ako kasi kaklase kita ngayong Grade 3. Ewan ko ba pero hindi mo naman kasinggwapo si Zac Efron, si Adam Levine, si Andrew Garfield, o kaya si Daniel Padilla.

Ang weirdo mo… at iyon ang nagustuhan ko sa’yo.

Hindi ko talaga mapigil yung pang-aasar ko sa’yo. Ang saya mo kasing asarin eh. Pandak ka, singkit, tapos ang haba pa ng buhok mo, tapos parang mamon ang pisngi mo. Para kang Dwendeng Sadako mula sa China. Minsan nga ‘pag nakikita kita, tumatawa na lang akong bigla.

Pero sa totoo lang ang galing mong maglaro ng Nanay-Tatay, Jackstone, lalo na sa Chinese Garter! Mataas pala tumalon ang mga pandak!

Tapos mahal na mahal mo yung mga lapis #2 mo, minsan nga hinihiram ko pa yung iba doon, at hindi ko na talaga ibabalik.

Tuwang-tuwa ako kasi kaklase kita ngayong Grade 3.

Gustong-gusto kong asarin ka. Doon mo lang kasi ako napapansin eh. Aasarin kita, magagalit ka, sisigaw, tapos hahabulin mo ako.

Kahit madali kang mapikon… ang cute mo pa rin! / ni Squishy

arrozcaldo,

Literary: Isang Dekada

7/30/2014 08:26:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Kinder. Practice ng recognition. Doon kita unang nakita. Hindi ko alam kung bakit o paano kita hinangaan. Basta alam ko ikaw na yun.


Kahit hindi mo alam, napasaya mo ako. Sa simpleng pakikipag-usap, sa isang sayaw na ginawa mong katatawanan, pati na rin sa pagsama mo sa akin at paghahatid pauwi. Alam kong lahat ng iyon ay walang halaga para sa’yo. Pero para sa akin, ibang klaseng kasiyahan ang aking naramdaman.


Hindi man halata pero oo, sinubukan kitang habulin, kahit imposibleng maabutan kita. Kahit na alam kong may iba kang hinahangaan. Kahit na halatang wala akong pag-asa. Pero patuloy akong umasa. Nagpaka-baliw ako para mapansin mo ako. Para magkaroon ako ng rason upang magkasama tayo, kahit saglit lang. Maniwala ka kung sasabihin ko sa’yo na ginawa ko ang lahat.


Sa lahat ng pamimilit ko, um-oo ka. Sa mga pakiusap ko, pinagbigyan mo ako kahit minsan alam ko, nararamdaman kong napipilitan ka. Pero kahit ganun, sinusubukan mo pa ring mag-enjoy kasama ako.

Kung tutuusin, wala rin naman akong napala, dahil sa simula pa lang, wala naman itong patutunguhan. Nagmukha lang akong tanga. Hindi ko rin naman nasabi sa’yo ang nararamdaman ko, nagulat ako nang malaman kong alam mo na. Matagal na pala. Pero nakakainis, ni-reject mo ako nang hindi ka nagsasalita o nagsasabi man lang. Ang masakit, ipinaramdam mo talagang napipilitan ka lang na pakisamahan ako.


Salamat sa lahat. Ang dami kong naging bagong karanasan dahil sa’yo. Salamat sa pagpapasaya sa akin, sa pagpapatawa, sa mga pagkakataong nagkasama tayo. Ngayong wala ka na, sinusubukan kong kalimutan ang lahat. Pero hinding-hindi ko makakalimutan yung mga panahong iyon. Kaya salamat.

english,

Literary: Asymptote

7/30/2014 08:15:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

I was having a hard time focusing on my Math teacher as she was discussing how to graph exponential functions. I guess it was because lately, there have been a lot of things that are bothering me. It's the last year, it might also be the last year I get time to spend with you.

Suddenly, the memories we spent together appeared in my mind. I still remember how we met, how we awkwardly introduced ourselves to each other. We didn't know then that a simple conversation would blossom into a long lasting friendship. We've known each other since we were kids, and throughout the years, we've always been together. I remember how we always compete with each other, and how I would always win. A sad smile crept up to my face. How could all those hours we spent with each other seem so short?

I began to think of what those memories mean to you. I can't ask, it is a line that I am too shy, too afraid to cross. Have you realized that I have liked you for some time now? Do you really only see me as a friend? I am wondering about what our relationship is to you.

I hate how the world is composed of laws that I will never be able to break. I simply try to reach out, to be with you, to make our paths intersect with each other. But we won't. We never will. I extend my hand as long as I could. I only need you to hold my hand. You don't. You can't. / by Galaxy

choices,

Literary: Choices

7/30/2014 08:07:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

25 July 2014

Dear NO NAME,

“I like my choices.”

This is from a famous book written by John Green where the characters choose to love each other despite their conditions, and conquer all the challenges they face together even though they know one of them would eventually leave.

How come other people can say that they actually like their choices? Don’t their other choices involve hurting another person?

Why can’t I like the decisions I make?

Why must I regret every choice I make?

Why can’t I be happy too?

These questions keep on popping up in my head. I feel the curse of my choices in everything that I do. Everyone keeps judging every move I make. The hell with them! Sometimes I just want to vanish like bubbles that float in the air. I haven’t been happy with my choices lately. I mess up, I get hurt, and I usually seem to end up crying. Is there something wrong with my mind? It used to be there to guide me every time I needed to make a decision.

Oh yeah, I forgot. The problem with me nowadays is that I always, always let my heart win.
The heart just ruins everything. Once your brain has generated a good solution to a problem, it is always there to contradict whatever was generated.

I think I should correct what I said earlier. I do like my choices. Or at least I did, before I let my heart have the final say on every choice I make.

Never let your heart have the final say, your brain was placed above your heart for a reason. “Mind over matter.” You have to learn how to let your brain work in times of decision making, or else you’ll end up like me. Bitter, lifeless, insecure and bothered by everything that happens around me.

The choices you make are like connect the dots. They make up the very person you are now… and will be for the rest of your life.

Now, after all I’ve said, I’ve come to realize how vital it is to learn to embrace the choices I make no matter how hard it is to accept, and no matter how much I get hurt in the process.

What’s not to like? I’ll have to go through my whole life making them right?

I should like my choices, you should too.

From:
Starkist

english,

Literary: The Day

7/30/2014 07:59:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

The wind blew. It felt cold on my skin. I inhaled deeply, taking in the moment.

It was considerably dark. A few stars were scattered here and there. The moon was slightly peeking through the clouds. Then, all around were lights from the buildings that seem to populate the entire city.
I stood up from the floor and picked up the jacket I was previously sitting on. I held it out in front of me, checking how dirty it got. Then I realized that it wouldn’t have much to show since it’s black. I chuckled a little and then gently patted the jacket of the little dirt it had obtained. Somewhat satisfied, I put it on.

I looked around observing the place I usually go to whenever I needed time on my own. It’s been five years and the only change that had happened was the fact that it was now filled with even more junk. The floor, once the color of freshly dried cement had developed a darker shade with uneven splotches of who knows what. The door that held the staircase, located slightly off middle to the left, was white when I first got here. It’s still white, but it’s started to chip off at the edges and parts of the paint had faded. There were boxes all around. Haphazardly stacked, one would presume, as a couple of them had already toppled over. Quite messy, I know, but at least it’s peaceful up here. I can hear myself up here.

I walked further to the edge and stood a step away from it, just behind the railing. Even without looking down, I knew that it was busy down there. You could say that the city, or at least this city, never slept. I tilted my head forward to see what was down below. True enough, the streets were still crowded. People were moving through the sidewalks, walking leisurely, crowding around the few stands that were still open. Every now and then, cars would pass, but at this hour, it’s really no surprise, the number.

I pulled my head back and stared out, looking into the distance. I could make out the silhouettes of the mountains from afar, endless as if surrounding the large area completely. I zipped up my jacket halfway, and settled my cold hands into its pockets. I guess I’ve been up here for around three hours already. Maybe I should’ve just left an hour into waiting. Am I still even waiting for anything?

I checked my watch for the nth time, 02:07. Already two hours into the day and I’ve done nothing but look around and maybe think of whatever while up here. Why was I up here at that hour? It was a special day. It was the day.

Then I heard a loud crash coming from below the streets. I looked down again and saw a taxi pressed against the wall, crushed by a ten-wheeler truck. I let out a sigh and shook my head, hoping it would clear my mind. There were too many thoughts then and I needed to focus, so I started to think about the plans I had for the day. It was a Thursday, meaning I had classes. Just a few more months and I would officially be a doctor. At lunch, I would meet up with my brother, who would turn over the ownership of the car to me. Then afternoon classes, and after that…

I was suddenly stirred from unconsciousness when I heard footsteps coming from within the stairwell. I noticed that I was seated with my back against the bars that kept me from falling to my death. Strange, I couldn’t remember how I nodded off. I turned my attention to the door, a couple of feet from where I was seated and waited for someone to exit it. A minute passed and no one stepped out, so I just rested my head back against the railing again and closed my eyes. I probably imagined the sound that took me from my sleep. It was still dark so I opted to continue my nap. I wasn’t able to fall asleep again though. I suddenly felt my chest grow heavy. I brushed it off as exhaustion and urged myself to relax. I reached for the midnight blue bag that I usually brought wherever I went. I set it on my lap and went through it, feeling the inside for the pocket hidden at the bottom. When I finally found it, I brought out the only thing inside – a red velvet box.
I opened the box and gazed at the diamond sitting atop the silver band inside. It cost me quite a lot but I knew it was the perfect one and that it would be worth it, she was beyond worth-it.

Emily. The corners of my mouth lifted subtly. We’ve been together for four years and I’ve wanted to drop down to one knee halfway through it. I was just waiting for a more stable moment and I figured that since I was graduating this year and already got a good-paying job waiting for me, my moment had come. That, and the fact that my mom’s got my back, especially on this one.

I realized that I was smiling a bit excessively at just thinking about it. I tried to tone it down, but my face had other ideas. I closed the box and placed it in the inner pocket of my jacket and tried to relax once again. After my dreamy high passed, I noticed that the heavy feeling in my chest was still there. It made me worry and I didn’t even know why. Before I could think about it further, I felt my phone vibrate, so I immediately pulled it out of my pants’ pocket. Flashed across the screen was “Ma”, so I answered right away.

“Yes Ma?”

I heard rustling noises on the other line and assumed that my mom was running or something.

“Ro, where are you?”

I found that question a little unusual for a conversation starter, but I answered anyway.

“I’m currently on top. Why, is somethi-“

“Don’t you dare jump!” came my mom’s loud voice through the receiver. Then in a much softer tone she added, “I’m picking you up, okay. Stay put. I’ll be there in ten minutes or less.”

And with that the call ended. I was bemused, but with the way she sounded, I guessed that it would be best to just follow. I placed my phone back in my pocket and started toward the door. I descended the stairs to the top floor and waited in front of the elevator. I wondered what was wrong and mulled over it the entire way down. I exited the elevator and walked across the lobby to the entrance. I was taking my time, but you can’t really blame me since I’ve had no sleep and it was barely three in the morning. I slowed to a stop at that thought because my confusion grew. What in the world was my mother doing wide awake at three in the morning?

That brought back my complete consciousness and I hurried outside the building. I found my mom’s car directly parked at the foot of the stairs with the passenger window down.

“What are you waiting for?”

Her voice sounded troubled, so I quickly made my way down the stairs and entered the car. I fastened my seatbelt and turned to face her. She had these calculating eyes, but overall worried expression which urged me to finally voice out my confusion.

“Okay, could you please tell me what’s going on? You’re acting strange and it’s concerning.”

I saw a flash of confusion in her eyes for a split second and I really did not know what to make out of it.

“You don’t know…” it wasn’t a question.

“Obviously…” I muttered under my breath. “What are you doing here at three in the morning…” I noticed what she was wearing – house clothes. “…and barely decent..?”

She turned her attention away from me and started driving. I saw her open her mouth a couple of times, but not a single word left her. I decided against repeating my question and settled in my seat. I kept my eyes on the road, but my mind wasn’t even completely there at the moment. It stayed like that for a few minutes until we entered the premises of a hospital parking lot. The heavy feeling in my chest made itself known again, only this time, much worse. My mom shut the engine and stepped out of the car. I followed.

We made our way to the entrance of the building, and my hand started making its way from staying motionless at my side to reaching inside of my jacket towards the pocket within for the box. I clutched it in my hand and slowly started pulling it out. All these were happening with my mind out of focus. I heard my mom’s voice going on about something, but I couldn’t make out what she was saying. Gradually, her words became clearer and started registering in my head…

“…ound Emily without a pulse..”

…and I almost wished they didn’t.

The box slipped from my grasp falling to the floor. It opened at impact and the ring, freed from its confinement, shattered. / by Mistress Possible

english,

Feature: A New Prayer for the Prayer

7/30/2014 07:53:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

"The Prayer" in its new home at the UPIS 7-12 Building. Photo credit: Jediael Neri

Created as an honored piece of art, The Prayer is a sculpture created by an alumnus of UP Prep and famous sculptor Ildefonso Marcelo to share his God-given talent on sculpting. It has been marveled by students and faculty who have seen the significance of the sculpture and the its purpose: to send out a prayer to God asking for the strength as it faces the struggles and problems this world has to offer.

Sadly, his prayer for strength of will, mind, and emotion was an image changed by the students who have not seen its true value. Its one arm has been broken and left neglected on one side. The sculpture has been sat upon and vandalized by graffiti of students past. Bags and portfolios placed on it hinder  its true purpose. The name has been changed to Rockman and it has been used ever since.

Students see it now as a dull rock sculpture of no significance. But if ever it comes alive and sees what has been done to him, will he want to stay that way? Will he blame us for doing the disgraces we have done?

Various writers have written articles that persuade us to see that its not just a piece of rock to create nonsense stories about it or make fun of it as a landscape design for the school. We can instill in the minds of the new generation of students that the statue deserves not just the respect but also the honor it once had. It’s not just a simple rock structure that we can ignore; it's a symbol of honor and excellence like a kneeling Oblation instilled in the legacy of UPIS. / by Jediael Neri and Trisha Serrano

amazing race,

Batches 2018 and 2020 hold Vivant

7/30/2014 07:43:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Teams composed of Grade 7 and Grade 9 students wait for their turn in one of the stations. / Photo credit: Jesica Caneca

The Freshman Association (FA) and Junior Association (JA) held an Amazing Race dubbed Vivant last July 14 at the UPIS grounds.

The main goal of the activity is for the Grade 9 and Grade 7 students to get to know each other and to strengthen the relationship between the two batches. Also, the games aim to teach the UPIS Students values like patience, persistence, and obedience to rules.

Activities include flag-making and group cheer presentation followed by obstacle courses, time-constraint challenges, and sensory tests.

Awardees were announced during the closing ceremony spearheaded by JA President Danna Sumalabe. The Black team won best cheer, Pink team won best logo, and the Green team was crowned as the best team. The individual awardees are “Surviboy” Allane Barles, “Survigirl” Ria Amano, and "Ok ka lang beh!" awardee Blade Saliva.

Vivante is a Spanish term for alive which focuses on the main theme which is survival. / by Travis Argayosa

admin,

Mga CCTV, gumagana na

7/30/2014 07:39:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Labindalawang CCTV cameras ang kasalukuyang nakakabit sa UPIS 7-10 Building at nagsimula nang gumana noong Hulyo 9, 2014.

Photo Credit: Jenn Elona

Ayon kay G. Aldous Cañeta, Administrative at Supply officer ng UPIS, ipinakabit ang mga CCTV para sa seguridad ng mga estudyante particular na sa 3rd at 4th floor. Sa ngayon, mayroong tig-dalawang unit ng CCTV sa 1st at 2nd floor at tig-apat naman sa 3rd at 4th floor. Ang lahat ng footages na nakakalap ay makikita sa Administrave Office.

Nagkakahalaga ang proyektong ito ng Php142,892 kasama na ang mga bullet cameras, DVR, AVR, at LCD ng bawat device na pinondohan ng UP Trust Fund.

Ang Faire Technologies Inc. ang kinuhang supplier ng UPIS para sa mga CCTV. / nina Jenn Elona at Don Oriel

anna punzalan,

Kamag-Aral 3-10 holds SUPERIsko LC

7/30/2014 07:34:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

UPIS student leaders gathered again for this year’s Leadership Camp with the theme SUPERIsko: Patunayan ang Tatag sa Lahat ng Oras at Pagsubok nang ang mga Katangian ng SUPERIsko ay Mahubog  held last July 25-26, 2014.

This year's camp was held at the UPIS 3-6 Building. Four speakers were invited to share their knowledge on specific topics namely: Pagtatanghal ng mga Kalakasan at Pagpapabuti sa mga Kahinaan ng Lider Isko by Dr. Amihan Ramolete, Paano Maging Bayani? by Dr. Leocito Gabo, Stress Management by Sir Brenson Andres, and Mga Gabay o Batayang Panuntunan sa Pagpapatakbo ng Homeroom, Club, at Organization by Prof. Zenaida Bojo.

One of the camp's highlights was the Amazing Race entitled SUPERIsko Adventures. In this event, students showed off their talents and abilities on how to overcome the different tasks of each station.

During the closing ceremony, the Pamunuan ng Kamag-aral (pKA) awarded the best groups for the different activities held in the camp. The Gagamboy and Lastikman groups were tied as the winners for the SuperIsko Adventures, Bagwis won the best group presentation, while the best groups for the whole camp were Bagwis and Super Inggo. / by Jesica Caneca and Anna Punzalan

cannot be reached,

Literary: Cannot Be Reached (Chapter 2)

7/23/2014 08:15:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Ang Cannot Be Reached ay kuwentong binuo, sinulat at pinaghirapan ng Media Center 1 2015 staff bilang kanilang creative writing project ngayong semestre.

Ang mga tauhan at mga pangyayari ay pawang kathang isip lamang, hindi hango sa tunay na buhay o karanasan. Ang anumang pagkakahawig sa tunay na buhay ay nagkataon lamang at hindi sinasadya. Walang bahagi ng kuwentong ito ang maaring ilathala at gamitin sa anumang paraan nang walang pahintulot ng may-akda.

bagyongMC,

Literary (Submission): Silent Cure

7/23/2014 07:55:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

bagyongMC,

Literary: No ID

7/23/2014 07:50:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

bagyongMC,

Literary: Sepanx

7/23/2014 07:46:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

bagyongMC,

Literary: Tears

7/23/2014 07:42:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

bagyongMC,

Literary: Fix Me

7/23/2014 07:39:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

academics,

Literary: Bakit Nga Ba?

7/23/2014 07:35:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

bagyongMC,

Feature: Switching On The Lights

7/23/2014 07:30:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

One week of vacation could lessen your stress, relieve you of your endless dilemma of waking up, and prevent you from enduring another day of school. Even the absence of electricity and water could not compare to the everyday struggles in your school life. Instead of going to school for four days, you have stayed inside your home, waiting for any sign of safety in the middle of a destructive storm.

Your first day was a minute in heaven. The moment the principal announced the suspension of classes, you rejoiced and maybe bounced your way towards your siblings and parents to spread the great news. You didn't have to wake up thirty minutes early just to attend the flag ceremony. The announcement was like music to your ears.

The first day passed and you saw that it was good. Maybe.

The next day, you found that the cold, angry weather began to unleash its rage and wrath. You could now hear the roar of the howling wind that caused detriment, and you have witnessed it as you looked out the window. Rain blurred the vicinity from the inside, and the breeze pelted your face with a small drizzle as you closed the panels of your window.

Still, you keep looking at the bright side. You don't have classes. You have probably exhaled a sigh of relief because two or more quizzes were set to date, and it was postponed.

The second day passed and you saw that it was good. But it wasn't.

You begin to feel anxious about the electricity that was gone since this morning. Your parents took the responsibility of buying batteries, flashlights, and candles as an alternative light source. You could no longer charge your waning phone battery, watch the news, or chat with your friends in the internet. This vacation is turning out to be a time-travelling experience back to the prehistoric times, when electricity was yet to be discovered and the Philippines was merely a piece of the Earth's wilderness. Your mind has been drifting into its thoughtful state. You settled into a positive mind set that if your ancestors survived without electricity or internet, then so can you. After all, our generation is the pinnacle of civilization. Who needs the internet when you don't have homework?

The third day passed and you saw that it was good. Or not.

You could not believe that you didn't spend a second of your week in class. Moreover, you also could not believe that you still don't have electricity nor an internet connection. It's fine, because tomorrow is the weekend and you don't have any schoolwork for the week. You have no reason to feel worried or whatsoever besides the electricians whom you look askance because of their sluggish response to the loss of current. The saddest thing is that you miss your friends, your crush, and your allowance from your parsimonious parents.

Finally, after endless hours of waiting, light bulbs magically lit up, one of which is in your head. The trigger of that light switch is your realization that electricity and water should not be taken for granted, even though energy cannot be created nor destroyed. You have proven that you'll never know what you've got til it's gone.

As you turn on your television, you also realize how fortunate you are compared to other families who were greatly afflicted by the formidable typhoon. While you were rejoicing for the suspension of classes, others were grieving for their lost loved ones or the death of a family member. You have all the reason to smile not just because of a week without school, but because of God's grace which kept your family safe and protected.

The fourth day passed and you saw that it was good.

In the end, another week has come and gone--- a week-long reality-check vacation that ended in a blink of an eye. / by Christine Bailon

cannot be reached,

"Don't English me..."

7/23/2014 07:01:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

cannot be reached,

Literary: Cannot Be Reached (Chapter 1)

7/11/2014 08:00:00 PM Media Center 6 Comments

Ang Cannot Be Reached ay kuwentong binuo, sinulat at pinaghirapan ng Media Center 1 2015 staff bilang kanilang creative writing project ngayong semestre.

Ang mga tauhan at mga pangyayari ay pawang kathang isip lamang, hindi hango sa tunay na buhay o karanasan. Ang anumang pagkakahawig sa tunay na buhay ay nagkataon lamang at hindi sinasadya. Walang bahagi ng kuwentong ito ang maaring ilathala at gamitin sa anumang paraan nang walang pahintulot ng may-akda.

cannot be reached,

"For one and for all..."

7/11/2014 07:00:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

cannot be reached,

Paano kung di mo makita ang hinahanap mo?

7/09/2014 08:25:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

english,

Literary (Submission): Wishes

7/09/2014 08:18:00 PM Media Center 1 Comments

english,

Literary: Lost

7/09/2014 08:14:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

english,

Literary: YDK

7/09/2014 08:12:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

english,

Literary: Stardust

7/09/2014 08:09:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

cookies and cream,

Literary: Wagas

7/09/2014 08:07:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

english,

Literary: Mind over Heart, Heart over Mind

7/09/2014 08:04:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

english,

Literary: Shopping Spree

7/09/2014 08:02:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

filipino,

Literary: Walang Masulat

7/09/2014 07:58:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

christine bailon,

Feature: Hanggang Saan Ka Dadalhin Ng Init?

7/09/2014 07:52:00 PM Media Center 1 Comments

Hindi ba nakapagtataka na papasok na ang tag-ulan pero nag-aala-daing na bangus pa rin tayo sa katuyuan? Nagsisimula na tayong makaramdam ng malamig na ihip ng hangin, ngunit hindi ba malagkit pa rin sa feeling? Halos araw-araw nating sinasabing, “Ang init!”, pero anu-ano nga ba ang ginagawa natin para masolusyunan ang walang kamatayang problemang ito?

May kanya-kanyang paraan ang mga estudyante sa pagpawi ng init at tumatagaktak na pawis sa kanilang katawan. Ilan lamang ito sa napakaraming tips kung paano makaka-survive sa eskuwelahan sa tindi ng sikat ng araw.

1. Magdala ng pamaypay na pang-donya. Yung di ka mo na kailangang mag-effort para I-spread ito. Mas makaka-save ka pa ng oras. Aminin, gustong-gusto mong marinig yung malutong na tunog ng pamaypay na isinasara.

2. Bumili ng thermos na jug. Tapos lagyan mo na rin ng yelo yung tubig. Mahirap kasing mag-akyat-baba papunta sa fountain. Lalo na kung galing ka sa fourth floor. Conserve energy.

3. Magdala ng yelo at maupo sa harap ng electric fan. Kahit ilang beses ka pang sitahin ng subject teacher mo, nananaig pa rin ang kagustuhan mong mapawi ang init. Paano ka naman makakapag-concentrate sa lesson kung pinagpapawisan ka na't lahat-lahat? Ang pangit kaya sa feeling. Nakakaapekto rin ito sa grades.

4. Habulin ang pag-ikot ng ceiling fan. Magpaalam ka lang sa nakaupo sa mga dadaanan mo.

5. Huwag masyadong maging clingy sa mga tao. Hindi sa lahat ng oras ay dapat kasama mo ang syota---- este, mga kabarkada mo. Mas nakadaragdag ito ng body heat. Isa pa, ayaw mo rin naman sigurong mag-sorry sa tuwing nagrereklamo sila sa init. Am I right or am I right?

6. Labagin ang uniform protocol. Tanggalin ang polo at iwan ang undershirt, mag-tsinelas imbis na mag-black shoes, o kaya wag na lang mag-undershirt at mag-polo na lang. It's all about your fashion statement. May iba nga naka-jacket pa rin kahit pawis na pawis na e. Di naman na uso ang pink slip, diba?


Kung hindi pa rin tumalab sa'yo ang mga tips na yan... Aba'y isa na lang ang natitira kong payo sa'yo, at ito ay:

7. Pumunta sa Arendelle. If the cold never bothered you anyway.

(c) eonline.com

 / ni Christine Bailon

english,

Feature: Loom-band-atic

7/09/2014 07:49:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Have you ever imagined that one day, a simple rubber band would become such a hit with both males and females, young and old?

Rainbow Looms, more commonly known as loom bands here in the Philippines, was created by Cheon Choon Ng in 2011. According to an article by Claire Martin from nytimes.com, Mr. Ng came up with the idea way back in 2010 when he saw his daughters making bracelets from rubber bands. He tried to imitate them but he couldn’t do it because his hands were too big. He then created a wooden board with push pins and got to work. He later sold his invention after knowing that his kids were impressed.

Loom bands are currently a major hit especially among teenagers. But what do UPIS students really think of it?

Some students who wear loom bands say that they wear it because they want to. Others say that someone gave it to them or made it for them. However, those who prefer not to wear them say that they think it’s tacky and the rubber irritates their skin. Well, the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton thinks otherwise! Other famous people who wear loom bands are David Beckham and One Direction’s Harry Styles.

Whatever you think about the famous loom band, it is definitely here to stay at least for now. / by Wren Breva

education,

Opinion: There is No Such Thing as Irrelevant Education

7/09/2014 07:45:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

“Whatever you enjoy doing, make that your profession. Then work won’t seem to be work, but a game.” – Aamir Khan (Rancho Chanchad, 3 Idiots)

Mankind needs enough skills and knowledge to survive this age. If you aren’t skilled or wise enough, you’ll have a higher tendency to end up at the bottom of the competition. These societal statements are the reason behind the desire of every single person to have a proper education. Everyone wants this for it is believed to be the key to success, the key to a decent life.

If education is truly essential, why do we question the relevance of every lesson taught to us? Why do we ask if some of these are really necessary or relevant? What really is relevant education for?

We acknowledge topics that cater to our interests, and criticize the applicability of those that we do not favor. This is how we come up with the term “relevant education” which consists of topics or lessons necessary in life, particularly in chosen future professions. Relevant education should provide the necessary skills and knowledge the field demands.

Thus, schools should not fill students with too much knowledge they wouldn’t need for too much of anything has negative effects. A school’s administration should know how to properly allocate the amount of lessons or topics given in a certain subject so that the students wouldn’t have a hard time coping with the topics. Balance is needed to lessen the pressure on students and teachers, as well.

Imagine that what you are doing right now is something you really like. Wouldn't things be easier than if you are doing something you do not favor? Apply this scenario to the system of education. Students will find it easier to study if they know that what they’re studying is necessary for their life in the future.

When each and every one of us loves what we do and becomes really good at it, it is truly beneficial for the society. The quality of work done by the people would be better, and as a result, it would help make the economy flourish. Education will be the spark of this scheme. Once students know and love their profession, they’d study more about it and as a result, they’ll hopefully be exceptional in their chosen field.

As a student, I can say that I receive relevant education. I feel that I’m receiving the right amount of lessons and developing the right set of skills though some subjects go beyond my limitations.

However, when you really think about it, there is no such thing as topics that are not needed in life. Everything that we learn can add up to our skills and knowledge. We may say things like “I don’t even need this when I grow up” because some topics are either explained briefly or too specifically which make them difficult to learn. What students need nowadays is basic education and the right introduction of topics. By providing these, we can figure out what profession we want and we can study further what we have to.

There is no such thing as irrelevant education. We encounter a lot of experiences, learn lessons, and find out about a lot of things. All these things would come in handy later in life. As long as we are learning, our knowledge and abilities would continue to grow. Do not take things, which you feel are not part of your chosen profession, for granted.

Education is the key to success and, in my opinion, also happiness. Let us live life with our desired profession in mind so that we will be happy with and interested in what we do. As a result, a better community would be in the future for every one of us. Let us enjoy learning a lot of new things and be open to what life brings us.

Education will never be irrelevant so give it importance and make the most out of it. / by Forth Soriano

filipino,

UPIS Swimming Team, nag-uwi ng 44 na medalya

7/09/2014 07:41:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Tinanggap ni Pricila Aquino ang tropeo bilang Most Outstanding Swimmer mula kay dating Senador Nikki Coseteng. (c) Catherine Lorbes

Nagkamit ng 21 gold, 7 silver, at 16 bronze medals ang UPIS Swimming Team sa ginanap na Philippine Swimming League (PSL) noong Hunyo 28-29 sa Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Itinanghal bilang “Most Outstanding Swimmer” para sa kani-kanilang age brackets sina Cha Esmero, Cheska Joves, at Pricila Aquino. Nakakuha si Esmero ng limang gold, dalawang silver, at dalawang bronze medal. Si Joves naman ay may dalawang gold, dalawang silver, at dalawang bronze habang si Aquino ay may pitong gold at isang silver medal.

Nakuha naman ni Drew Magbag ang bagong PSL record para sa 100m breaststroke at 50m breaststroke.

Sumali rin sa kompetisyon sina Juneau Villanueva, Ryan Dimayuga, Ernest Arceo, JB Cuachin, Mary Llorente, Suzy Uy, Carl Condalor, Michael Tee, Glenn Anicoche, John Fajutagana, Joanne de Castro, Mae Rodgers, Owen Bernos, Jasmine Esguerra, Lucille Silvestre, Ria Amano, Angel Dizon, Kennard Bondal, Antonio Aquino, Samnel Gaa, Keio Guzman, Mark Camanian, Kevin Berina, Cynil Tecson at iba pang elementary swimmers.

Napili namang kinatawan ng UPIS sina Esmero, Joves, at Aquino sa gaganaping swimming competition sa Singapore sa darating na Agosto 2 at 3. / ni Juneau Villanueva

Kuha ni Catherine Lorbes

alumni,

UPIS alumnus supervises 7-12 Quad landscaping

7/09/2014 07:39:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

The UPIS 7-12 Quadrangle is currently undergoing landscaping and redecorating under the supervision of UPIS Batch 1991 alumnus Jemil Araos.

Part of the 7-12 Quad which is undergoing landscaping.

According to Dr. Ronaldo San Jose, the school principal, Araos proposed his plans and designs to the UPIS administration before the transfer to the new building was completed. The administration deliberated and eventually approved the proposal. Former UP Diliman Chancellor Cesar Saloma gave the go signal on December 2013.

Aside from the Quad, Araos also designed the garden areas at UPIS, all of which are sponsored by different alumni batches. The idea to turn the areas into gardens was one of the proposed solutions to the problem of having loose soil on those areas. Whenever strong winds blow, the soil particles are scattered all over the place, even inside the ground floor classrooms.

The landscaping of the Quad is also in preparation for Batch 1991's Alumni Homecoming in 2016, he year of the UP High Centennial.

The different garden areas are divided into pockets which cost Php 50,000 each. Since the refurbishing of the Quad in particular is not sponsored by anyone, it will be accomplished in exchange for the scrap materials from the old demolished building. / by Jesica Cañeca

admin,

UCS, bagong janitorial agency ng UPIS

7/09/2014 07:35:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Papalitan ng Ultimate Care Services (UCS) ang Carebest sa pangangasiwa ng custodial affiliations sa UPIS ngayong taon.

Ayon sa isinagawang bidding ngayong taon, ang UCS ay mapupunta sa South Sector ng Unibersidad, kung saan kabilang ang UPIS, samantalang ang Philbest Manpower Agency naman sa North Sector. Tulad ng mga naunang custodial agencies, may isang taong kontrata sa nasabing paaralan ang UCS.

Isa si Kuya Arvy sa mga bagong custodial workers mula sa UCS.

“Syempre may natirang custodians mula sa dating agency. Meron kasing 60/40 policy. Kaya anim na custodian ang mananatili at apat naman ang bago. May karanasan na kasi ang matitirang anim at subok na ang kanilang mga kakayahan sa iba’t-ibang trabaho. Tinitignan din namin yung performance nila,” pahayag ni Mrs. Hermie Malonzo, ang Administrative Officer na namamahala sa mga custodial workers at security guards ng paaralan.

“Number one rule namin sa kanila ay honesty. Ayaw kasi naming mangyari uli yung mga insidente na nangyari noon,” dagdag pa ni Malonzo.

Nagsimula ang Ultimate Care at ang mga custodial workers nito noong Lunes, ika-7 ng Hulyo 2014. / nina Rielle Ruiz at Jediael Neri

clubs and orgs,

UPIS Student Leaders, opisyal na itinalaga

7/09/2014 07:31:00 PM Media Center 0 Comments

Nanumpa sa katungkulan ang mga student leaders para sa akademikong taong 2014-2015 noong Hulyo 8, Martes, oras ng flag ceremony.

Pinangunahan ng Kamag-Aral 7-10 ang panunumpa na kinabibilangan ng mga Pangulo, Pangalawang Pangulo, Kalihim, Ingat-yaman, Tagasuri, Tagapamahala, Tagapamahayag, at mga Tagapamayapa mula sa iba’t ibang klase, YLOs, clubs at organizations.

Binati ni Dr. Ronaldo M. San Jose ang mga bagong talaga na lider. Pinaalalahanan din niya ang bawat mag-aaral na pangalagaan ang pasilidad ng paaralan partikular na ang mga newly-installed CCTV cameras at mga emergency alarm.

Ayon sa kanya, inaasahan ang bawat estudyante na maging responsable sa paggamit pasilidad at iba pang kagamitan sa paaralan bilang mga estudyante ng UPIS.

Ang oath-taking na ito ay nagsilbing paghahanda para sa gaganaping Leadership Camp sa darating na Hulyo 18-19, 2014. / ni Jenn Elona