Republic of the Philippines

Pasay City National Science High School

Schools Division Office - Pasay City

By Shaun Mustang Jacinto Copyedited by Mekylla Marie Villapaña Photos by Shaun Mustang Jacinto and Xyrel James Canonoy Speaking in front of Campus Journalists from across the country, Archie Bergosa, Editor-in-chief (EIC) and founder of Explained PH, a youth-led community of local scribes, addressed the challenges currently faced by publications locally. Bergosa emphasized that journalism is under attack in the webinar entitled, “Beyond The Spotlight: The True Impact of Campus Journalism on Community and Society,” which convened via Zoom on June 13. Bergosa addressed the challenges currently faced by student publications. He then mentioned prevalent issues that journalism faces in the country, such as news avoidance and media distrust, attributing these phenomena to concerns such as libel and red-tagging. He also pointed out that administrative obstacles impede student publications from disseminating stories that campus journalists would like to share. The low standing of the country on the press freedom index was highlighted in his talk and he also mentioned the harnessing of campus journalism to improve media freedom ratings. He posited that threats against press freedom undermine democratic processes by inhibiting informed decision-making among the public. Bergosa harps on the wider significance of campus journalism beyond accolades, stating, “We need to make students realize that campus journalism is more than medals and awards. It should be viewed as a movement capable of driving positive changes within our communities.” He concluded his talk by emphasizing the societal implications of campus journalism, advocating for the proactive defense of press freedom and the cultivation of constructive dialogue. Virginia “Virg” Magtira, EIC of The Catalyst Student Publication at PUP Sta. Mesa Manila, shared concerns about journalist safety, citing financial constraints as a significant barrier for campus publications. She emphasized the role of campus journalists in advocating for free expression and promoting critical news consumption. Magtira shared some of the challenges faced by their publication, The Catalyst, which is unable to circulate hard copies and relies solely on online distribution. She said that despite this effort, the publication has encountered issues with shadow banning, limiting its visibility and reach online. While journalism is usually defined as objective and fearless, Magtira argued that it is rooted in truth-telling and rigorous investigation, acknowledging its subjective nature in the pursuit of accurate reporting. The session concluded with John Ray Luciano, secretary of the College Editors Guild, delivering his closing remarks. Following this, the hosts facilitated a Q&A forum where comments and questions were addressed by resource speakers Magtira and Bergosa. Matthew Vitug of Ang Liwanag, Shaun Jacinto and Xyrel Canonoy of The Quantum, represented Pasay City National Science High School in the webinar hosted by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ College of Communication.  

By: Kandice Paras Copyedited by: Stacie Marie Catallo Photos by: Kandice Paras Media content creators, environmental researchers, and campus journalists gathered yesterday, June 11, at the 2024 Media Festival for the Environment held via Zoom. The event, hosted by the Philippine Network of Environmental Journalists, Lyf Philippines, Earth Journalism Network, and Internews Network, showcased innovative approaches to tackling pressing ecological challenges. Opening the series of talks, award-winning broadcast journalist Atom Araullo shared his insights on the role of media in driving positive community change. He highlighted the struggle of making climate change understandable to the general populace, not just indigenous peoples. “Engaging and creative communication methods are crucial to make the subject more accessible and interesting,” Araullo emphasized. He also stressed the need for clear explanations of government policies to enhance public understanding and awareness. Following Araullo, investigative journalist Aireen Jaymalin discussed the significant decline in whale shark sightings over the past three years. She pinpointed plastic waste and improper fishing practices as major threats to marine biodiversity, particularly to whale sharks. Elmer Padilla, famous for creating superhero figures from recycled slippers, highlighted efforts in Puerto Princesa to protect natural wonders through an innovative ‘invisible fence.’ This approach aims to safeguard delicate ecosystems and wildlife habitats while allowing visitors to responsibly appreciate the area’s beauty. “Such efforts showcase the community’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage for future generations,” Padilla noted. Baguio-based journalist Frank Cimatu discussed the environmental significance of Quirino Hill, also known as Sisim Mountain. He shared practical advice for coping with the rising heat index, recommending white clothing over black to mitigate heat absorption. Joel Escovilla, a journalist from the Mindanao Times, wrapped up the presentations by sharing an initiative in Davao City where Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles are recycled into eco-bricks. This method addresses waste management issues and promotes environmental sustainability by repurposing materials that would otherwise contribute to marine pollution. The conference ran from 9:00 am and ended at 11:30 am, and highlighted the collective responsibility to educate and mobilize communities towards sustainable practices and the critical role of effective communication in addressing the global climate crisis. Pasay City National Science High School’s Official English Publication, The Quantum, was represented by scribes Zyriel Josh Coronel, Xyrel James Canonoy, Kandice Paras, Din Heinrich Naorbe, and Carl Niño Carasco.  

Content by: Pauleen Tracy SamsonLayout by: Yelena Kazmier Fabricante Genuine independence means celebrating the spirit of freedom and equality. Regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, we are all Filipinos deserving of equal rights. Today, June 12, let us honor the bravery of those who fought for our nation. Accompanied by the people who continuously fight for inclusivity and acceptance, we can commemorate our country’s journey to independence while also embracing the vibrant colors of Pride Month. It is our duty to remember that our strength as a nation lies in our diversity and ‘bayanihan.’ Every voice deserves to be heard and respected, for we can all contribute to our society. Together, let us produce a country dominant in love, liberty, and inclusivity, acknowledging the diverse identities that make the Philippines stronger with each passing year. While raising our flag, never forget to also raise our voices against discrimination and injustice. Remember that our voices hold power to produce transformative change, ensuring that every Filipino can live with pride and dignity. With this, we must continue to champion freedom for all, celebrating the unique contributions of every individual in our society.  

By: Alhea Barrios, Xyrel James Canonoy Copyread by: Stacie Marie Catallo Photos by: Reisha Uy, Mark Reniel Balolo It was a sunny morning at Pasay City National Science High School (PCNSciHS) as the PaScian community gathered to send-off the outgoing principal, Mr. Rouell Santero, and welcome Dr. Mark Anthony Familaran as the new school leader. In accordance with Schools Division of Pasay Memorandum Circular No. 0957, Series of 2024, Dr. Familaran officially assumed the role of the 8th school principal of PCNSciHS on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. Formerly serving as Principal I of Rafael Palma Elementary School, Dr. Familaran succeeds Mr. Santero, who has been reassigned to lead Pasay City East High School (PCEHS). The welcoming ceremony began at the school gates at 10:30 a.m. The transition continued in the school’s quadrangle, with the faculty, non-teaching staff, the School Parents-Teachers’ Association, and selected PaScian Senior Scouting Movement participants eagerly gathered to meet Dr. Familaran. A small feast was provided during the event for all attendees, including both the incoming and outgoing principals. In his bittersweet speech, Mr. Santero expressed his hopes of being an inspiration to the community and motivating them to strive for excellence. He encouraged everyone to uphold the positive initiatives initiated under his leadership and to embrace the changes Dr. Familaran may bring. “All the good memories that you gave to me will be in my heart and in my mind. The words “thank you” alone is not enough for everything that you gave me,” he stated. As Mr. Santero departed from PaSci, he was accompanied by members of the School Parents-Teachers’ Association and both teaching and non-teaching personnel to PCEHS. Meanwhile, Dr. Familaran took his oath with his family as he assumed the principalship.  

Patnugot ni Angelique Inlong Isang malaking karangalan para sa Pasay City National Science High School ang pagkilala sa Ang Liwanag bilang Pinakamahusay na Organisasyon. Ang tagumpay na ito ay hindi lamang bunga ng masikap na pagtatrabaho at dedikasyon ng mga miyembro, kundi pati na rin ng kanilang walang sawang hangarin na maghatid ng de-kalidad na impormasyon at inspirasyon sa buong paaralan. Ang Liwanag, bilang opisyal na pahayagan ng aming eskwelahan, ay naging ilaw at gabay sa bawat mag-aaral at guro. Sa bawat pahina ng pahayagan, matutunghayan ang mga balitang nagtatampok ng mga tagumpay, mga pangyayari sa loob at labas ng paaralan, at mga opinyong pumupukaw sa isipan. Ang pagkilalang ito ay patunay na ang dedikasyon sa tamang pamamahayag ay may kaakibat na gantimpala. Hindi rin matatawaran ang suporta ng mga guro, magulang, at administrasyon na naging katuwang sa tagumpay ng Ang Liwanag. Ang kanilang patnubay at pagtitiwala ay nagbigay ng lakas at inspirasyon sa bawat miyembro na ipagpatuloy ang kanilang misyon. Sa pagkakamit ng parangal na ito, lalo pang titibay ang pangako ng Ang Liwanag na maglingkod ng tapat at mahusay sa komunidad ng Pasay City National Science High School. Ang kinang ng kanilang tagumpay ay magsisilbing gabay para sa mga susunod pang henerasyon ng mga batang mamamahayag na magpapatuloy sa pagdala ng liwanag sa ating paaralan at lipunan.  

By: Xyrel James Canonoy Copyedited by: Mekylla Villapaña Photos by: Jed Palonpon ICYMI: Epifanio Delos Santos Elementary School opened its gates to the week-long 42nd Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) last January 19-20, with the theme, “The Role of Campus Journalism in Fostering DepEd Matatag: Addressing Literacy, Chartering a New Path.” The said conference, in accordance with the Campus Journalism Act of 1991, seeks to showcase the significance of journalism through various approaches, sustain social consciousness through advocacies, encourage responsible journalism and ethical social media use, and improve journalistic competence through friendly competitions. January 19: Day One The first day showcased the preliminary events of field competitions in Collaborative Desktop Publishing, Online Publishing, Radio Broadcasting and Scriptwriting, Photojournalism, and Sports Writing —These competitions demanded strategic coverage spaces, that is why the day opened with a doubleheader punch —an organized press conference and exhilarating live sports action. Broadcasting events were aired live on the given “DSPC News Express” program name, at 850 kilohertz. January 20: Day Two The second day launches with the official opening ceremony. Messages of inspiration were shared by Dr. Arturo Tolentino, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Joel T. Torrecampo, CESO VI, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Schools Division Superintendent, Hon. Joey C. Isidro Jr, Councilor, District II, and Chairman for Education Affairs, Hon. Tony G. Calixto, Congressman of the Lone District of Pasay City, and City Mayor Hon. Emi Calixto-Rubiano. Remmy Parcia, from Grade 10 – Pascal, performed an intermission number. Following this, another highlight was Ang Liwanag’s (Official Filipino Publication of PCNSciHS) School Paper Adviser, Mrs. Myra R. Jaime, who spoke as the President of the Pasay City Secondary School Paper Advisers Association. Mr. Tyrone Jasper C. Piad, a Business Reporter for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, served as the keynote speaker. He emphasized the significance of youth and journalism in nation-building, stating, “Bata tayo, at marami tayong kayang gawin.” (We are children, and we can accomplish many things). The orientation for contests was led by Dr. Imelda V. Boquiren, Education Program Supervisor- English, and Rowela R. Cadayona, Education Program Supervisor- Filipino. The focus of the second day was on off-site activities in the News Writing, Editorial Writing, Feature Writing, Editorial Cartooning, Column Writing, Science and Technology Writing, and Copyreading and Headline Writing categories. “I believe that a journalist should write only what he holds in his heart to be true” — Rica Angela A. Calubaquib, The Quantum’s Editor-in-Chief, Pasay City National Science High School’s Official English Publication, led the oath of the Journalist’s Creed. The competitions commenced in their respective rooms. The week-long competition will mark its culmination with an awarding ceremony tomorrow, January 26. Will PaScians emerge victorious? Stay tuned for more updates.

By: Xyrel James Canonoy Pasay City National Science High School has introduced Project NUMERO (Numeracy Enhancement and Reinforcement Opportunities), a specialized program aimed at boosting students’ proficiency in mathematics. As part of a local initiative under the Office of the City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, Dr. Rogelio S. Junio as the main proponent, and the Schools Division of Pasay City, Project NUMERO is designed to reinforce the mathematics curriculum by equipping learners with critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills essential for academic success and real-life applications. The Department of Education’s goal is to cultivate numeracy among students, enabling them to apply mathematical skills in various contexts. Through Project NUMERO, the school emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and critical thinking in mathematics education, with these skills embedded in both the curriculum and assessment methods. In response to identified learning gaps, Project NUMERO serves as a targeted intervention for students at Pasay City National Science High School. The program includes engaging, hands-on activities to make math concepts more accessible and to support students who may need additional reinforcement in numeracy. This initiative also functions as a learning recovery strategy, helping students to strengthen their foundational skills and keep pace with their grade-level expectations. Objectives of Project NUMERO include to gauge the numeracy proficiency of students from Grades 1-10, identifying areas for improvement, gain insights into each learner’s mathematical understanding to provide targeted support and implement activities designed to improve and enhance students’ numeracy skills. The program is set to begin with the start of the new school year and is expected to create a lasting impact on students’ mathematical competencies at Pasay City National Science High School.  

By: MARIA LUZ A. ROGACION-TII Pasay City National Science High School (PCNSciHS) supports the Philippine government’s goal of protecting the human rights of women and is committed to addressing all forms of gender-based violence. In line with this, we hosted a one-day seminar titled “Fostering Well-being: Exploring the Intersection of High Grades and Mental Health Education,” targeting issues identified by teachers at PCNSciHS. The relationship between high grades and mental health is complex, influenced by individual experiences, cultural factors, and societal expectations. In the Philippines, where educational achievement is often highly valued, various factors can affect this relationship. Mr. Gil C. Ganelo, our guidance counselor, discussed the reasons behind the mental health challenges faced by our students and the intricate link between high academic performance and mental well-being. He also shared strategies for addressing these issues in the classroom. At the conclusion of the discussion, the guest speaker invited attendees to reflect on the question, “Is This Structure?” He provided various scenarios and guided us through appropriate responses. The teachers actively participated, sharing insights and discussing how to handle special situations encountered in the classroom. The seminar proved to be valuable for the teachers, who left with new lessons and strategies. A photo opportunity followed, capturing moments with school heads Mr. Rouell A. Santero and guest speaker Mr. Gil C. Ganelo.  

By: Amiel Emanuele Gonzaga and Gero Achilles H. FernandezPhotos by: Irish Manalang, Juan Carlos Llames, Mervyn Valdez The Launch of Project S.I.K.A.P. sets forth with the opening address of Mr. Librado F. Torres, Chief Education Program Supervisor – CID. Following this, Dr. Maripaz T. Mendoza, the Education Program Supervisor in Science, presents the overview and the implementers of the program. Dr. Joel T. Torrecampo, Office of the Schools Division Superintendent, expresses his message regarding the project before Hon. Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, Mayor of Pasay City, and Hon. Antonio G. Calixto, Congressman of Pasay City, conveyed their keynote address.