The Capitol’s Main Feature and Main Sci-Tech | Vol. 8 • No. 1

CAMPUS CRISIS

Teachers vs Matatag

by JEZELLE BOMBIO

Studes demand tighter security, alarm safety concerns

by CHRISTIAN ANGELO PASTRANO

Expressing their disappointment, students demand tighter security after MONHS Coordinating Principal Julieto M. Indonto announced at a PTA meeting the implementation of new safety measures: students are now required to wear their school IDs, and a school guard has been stationed at the Annex area to prevent further incidents.

On behalf of the students, Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) President Aldryn Kwek emphasized the need for stricter measures, where he suggested implementing a “Wear Your Uniform” policy to easily identify outsiders.

“The school’s cyberspace is already vast. If there are outsiders, they have high chance to easily escape as it’s difficult to identify them due to wearing civillian,” Kwek said, stressing that students should feel safe attending school. Indonto, however, explained that forcing

students to wear uniforms isn’t feasible due to the importance of student autonomy, especially for those whose families struggle with financial difficulties.

ALARMING CRIMES

On September 11, 2024, an 18-year-old male intruder was arrested after being spotted entering the Annex building, searching for a specific student due to a misunderstanding, this situation escalated when the intruder was found holding a knife, alarming students.

Meanwhile, the intruder was released from police custody after a briefing and ever since his arrest, security guards have reported no further sightings of him or his companions on the MONHS grounds.

In a separate incident, while MAPEH teachers were away for the Provincial Meet,

Teachers from MONHS have raised concerns about the insufficient time alotted for teaching, with some subjects facing time shortages, extending class times to one hour.

The implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum for school year 2024-2025 requires both students and teachers to adjust with the 45-minute class period across all Junior High School levels, making it difficult for them to cope with lessons.

Additionally, teachers faced workload struggles from the 45 minutes per subject schedule, stating that the average six classes they’d teach per day usually increase to eight due to the extra 15 minutes.

MONHS teacher, Aihrolyn Claire D. Gutierrez, expressed catching up with the time schedule of the new curriculum, “It’s not enough, especially to those teachers travelling distant classrooms. It takes about 5-10 minutes to get to the Main Campus from the Annex building, teaching time would further be shortened and won’t be able to accommodate the full 45 minutes.”

security measures, in

a bag containing a voice amplifier and other valuables was stolen from the Sports Coach’s office.

Students near the creek found some of the stolen items, such as a T-shirt, notebooks, and keys, however, the bag and other items remained missing.

After further investigation, the suspect and the remaining missing items were still not yet found, despite that, teachers remained grateful that some of their belonging were retrieved, “We’re thankful to the students from the Annex building who really found our things, at least, there are still some remaining,” they expressed.

In addition, wires and appliances were stolen from the supply office, and senior high school teachers reported missing valuables, including earbuds and money.

Monhs students criticize AI detectors’ bias

by ALFEIYA OMANDAM

The new curriculum has also tightened the schedules of the students and their time answering written works, resulting in them suffering from piled-up activities and increased stress, leading to a sense of pressure.

“Makabitin gyud kaayo ang 45 minutes time nga gihatag. Sometimes, we can’t finish discussions in our class, tapos during quizzes, we don’t have enough time to answer which affects our daily discussions and lessons,” Lhord Kian Pialago, a grade 10 student, said.

Even after this, MONHS continues to adjust with the MATATAG curriculum through further seminars for Grade 7 teachers to address struggles and challenges before its full implementation to other grade levels in the next school year.

by the numbers

Learners raised concerns after discovering while checking their essays that AI detectors were misclassifying their work AI-generated, following findings from a recent Stanford University study.

The students learned from the study that non-native English writing, such as TOEFL essays from a Chinese forum, was flagged nearly 98% of the time, while essays from U.S. eighth-graders remained largely accurate. “Ga-use ko’g AI detector sa essay nako and surprisingly, it says AIgenerated ang essay nako. Alarming kaayo kay basin mahitabo sa uban tapos tarong ka nagtrabaho,” said Koleen Dela Rosa, a grade 12 student at MONHS. Dela Rosa, along with other students, is worried that the system’s biases might unfairly target their efforts to improve their English writing. The study reveals that AI detectors rely on a measure called “perplexity,” which gauges the complexity of word choices. Texts with simpler, more common words are flagged more often, putting non-native speakers, like those at MONHS, at a disadvantage. With unreliable results, students fear the technology could lead to wrongful accusations of cheating.

I miss our time together, but knowing you are in a better place, I’m still grateful because you aren’t hurting anymore.‘Til we meet again,Jill.

THE RIFFLE EFFECT

One Child’s Legacy, One School’s Change

by ROHANNIE LAWIG

The once spotless chair is now covered by dust, a fleeting reminder of memories that will never fade but will always remain, even if hidden beneath the dust of time.

A friend, a daughter, a ray of sunshine—that’s what people called this young angel, Jillian, who is now shining brighter than ever, wherever she may be. No one could have imagined such a tragic end for this little girl, whose cheerful personality could brighten even the dreariest day.

She smiled like a summer sunrise; she laughed like a happy breeze. Jillian wasn’t just a nice person—she was kind. Every quality she embodied flowed from her like a gentle river, smoothing the ever-ragged rocks of the world as it passed. Her classroom, always spotless, reflected the peace she carried inside. With effortless grace, Jillian saw into the hearts of others, offering comfort and understanding. Her humor was a gift, wrapping everyone she met in love and support.

But one day, the light of her presence dimmed forever. Jillian’s spark was extinguished in a tragedy that shattered everyone who knew her—she took her own life inside the school. The world seemed darker, emptier, and filled with questions that would never be fully answered.

Her absence, though heartbreaking, ignited a fire of change. Those who loved Jillian remembered her kindness, her exuberance, and her light, and they vowed to create a world where every child could experience the love, support, and understanding Jillian had so freely given.

A new chapter began with the introduction of the Matatag Curriculum. The school community banded together, determined to ensure that no student would ever feel so alone again. They initiated lessons on emotional well-being and encouraged open conversations about mental health. Counseling services became more accessible, with students able to share their feelings anonymously online or in face-to-face, judgment-free sessions with caring counselors. The school transformed into a sanctuary—a safe space where every voice was heard, and every heart was valued.

Creative outlets like writing, drama, art, and music were integrated into the school day, giving students the tools to express their emotions in healthy, constructive ways. Mindfulness exercises and stress-reduction techniques became part of the routine, helping students learn how to manage their feelings. This wasn’t just about solving

A STAR STILL SHINING

Finding Hope Amidst Christmas Grief

by ABEGAIL SHANE BACO

As the holiday season unfolds and homes in our community are decorated with twinkling lights, one family sits at the intersection of joy and sorrow. This Christmas, they’re enduring a bittersweet season, forever transformed by the loss of their dear mother, their North Star. She is their beloved, the flame that once illuminated the expanse of their universe, a universe now darkened by her death. This family’s tale touches our hearts as a parish, because we gather in our town with families to share traditions. Their mother was more than a parent she was the heart of their home, a source of energy and love whose laughter could banish even the darkest days.

Photos of her infectious giggle and bright eyes are painful reminders of the joy she brought to their lives. But in the aftermath of her death, the bright spirit of Christmas seems stifled.

The celebrations that once overflowed with excitement are now filled with a bittersweet sense of melancholy as the family mourns. The metaphor of a star fading is not poetry for them, it is a reality they grapple with every day.

The light of what once made this season a celebration has faded, leaving only a reminder of what they cannot put into words what they have lost. But in the midst of their grief, this family knows the recovery of their faith that out of the ashes of grief, a star can rise.

They understand on a deep level that the cycle of life is full of endings that lead into new beginnings. Their grief is not

an isolation, it is a communion that unites them further This Christmas, they celebrate the memories of their mother and transform their grief into a celebration of her legacy that endures.

Turn it into the ornament that hung on the tree and the photograph that was shared and the story the storyteller told as the twinkling light led their eyes through the darkness. They grow their memories like jewels, tend to the love that endures, and fill the sky with constellations of events shared that keep her fire burning.

Thus, their indignation turns into a common glow-proof of family strength, proof of love endurance. When they find themselves sitting around the tree, they know that even in the direst depths of heartache, the vision of a new day lies just beyond the horizon. While we

rejoice in the light this holiday season, let us also pause to remember those who carry the burden of loss.

There are many families in our community going through similar experiences, drawing comfort from treasured memories as they cling to the hope that better days will come.” These stories serve as a testament to the limitless strength of the human spirit and the unbreakable ties of family. This Christmas, let us remember those whose light has gone dim but whose love will forever remain bright in our hearts. Among our celebrations, we can find ways to help each other so we each have someone to share our sorrow with. But in our observance, we can forge a new legacy of love, hope, and remembrance- lighting the way for others traveling the same path.

FUTURE SHORT-CIRCUITED Dreams vanish in a snap while chasing them

by ABEGAIL SHANE BACO

required tools and materials, Joshua took on part-time jobs, balancing his schoolwork with his job responsibilities. His perseverance and work ethic were admired by those around him, his determination to make his dreams a reality, despite the hurdles, was an inspiration to many Joshua’s guardian, who cared deeply for him, spoke of him with great affection, describing him as a kindhearted young man with enormous potential. Though Joshua was somewhat reserved by nature, his guardian noted that his character and hardworking attitude were the traits that stood out the most. Those who knew him were confident that Joshua had a bright future ahead of him, one that would surely be marked by success.

However, Joshua’s promising future was tragically cut short during a routine Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM) class. On that fateful day, Joshua and his classmates were assigned to a wiring task, as with any hands-on project in a technical field, there was an inherent level of pressure to get things right, and the students were focused on completing the task at hand. Unfortunately, in the midst of their work, Joshua accidentally held onto a clip-on without turning off the main breaker that supplied the classroom with 220 volts of electricity.

The powerful current surged through his body, the shock of the high voltage caused Joshua to lose control, and he was unable to release his grip in time. His

classmates, horrified by what had happened, quickly rushed to turn off the main breaker, hoping to save him. But in less than 10 seconds Joshua collapsed immediately, his body unresponsive to their efforts to help. His pulse faded as they tried desperately to assist him, but tragically, Joshua passed away before reaching the hospital.

The loss of Joshua is not just a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a reminder of the risks involved in hands-on fields like Industrial Arts. While these fields offer immense opportunities for creativity and skill development, they also require caution, respect for safety protocols, and awareness of the dangers inherent in the work. Joshua’s untimely death serves as a sobering reminder that such fields, though rewarding, come with risks that must always be taken seriously.

Despite this heartbreaking accident, Joshua’s legacy will live on. His story serves as a reminder that pursuing one’s dreams requires both dedication and sacrifice, and Joshua’s journey showed that he was more than willing to put in both. His hard work, his kindness. And his genuine love for Industrial Arts will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Joshua’s legacy as a hardworking and passionate individual will continue to inspire those who remember him. Joshua Maravillas may no longer be with us, but his influence and memory will never fade.

“

School days are different without you, Josh. I never expected such thing to happen on that day, but God must have a reason for that. Hope you’re doing well up there.

-Jason Gomez (Joshua’s Classmate)

A SHINING STAR TOO SOON EXTINGUISHED

by ROHANNIE LAWIG

eisha. The very name brings to mind a vivid picture of a whirlwind of energy, an unyielding drive for success, and a heart full of love. A younger sister, gone too soon at the tender age of 14, leaves behind a legacy that still inspires and breaks our hearts all at once.

Keisha’s passion burned bright. She had an unyielding ambition, a work ethic that never tired, which fueled her dreams. While she did excellently in academics, finding joy in the challenge of high grades and the pride she brought our family, her free time was filled with simple pleasures— mobile games, a testament to her balanced spirit. The most special of those memories would have to be

the countless nights filled with deep conversations, with bouts of laughter that would echo throughout our home, and the unwavering support between sisters. Moments full of intimacy and connection remain etched in my heart—a treasure trove of love and shared experiences. She was a lodestar, an inspiration to not just me, but to our siblings and cousins to strive for excellence in academics. Her high grades became a benchmark, a sign of what could be achieved through hard work and dedication.

Keisha was more than an excellent student; her personality shone through. She lit up every room, be it with her boisterous dance sessions or late-night routines. Her sparkling spirit was that ray of joy that left an inerasable mark on everyone she encountered.

Tragically, complications from blood cancer cut short Keisha’s life. Her sudden hospitalization showed that she had severe deficiencies in her platelets and hemoglobin—something that was realized a little too late. Her passing is a sobering reminder of the importance of balanced nutrition and preventive health measures. Perhaps if she had lived a healthier lifestyle, things might have been different. It is this painful truth that drives our determination to create awareness of cancer prevention and the importance of a balanced diet. During her illness, Keisha was surrounded by the unwavering support of our loving family, relatives, friends, and classmates, who provided constant moral support through daily visits to the ICU. The comprehensive medical care she

received was, though eventually inadequate, testimony to the love and dedication of those who took care of her.

In our darkest hour, the outpouring of support from Keisha’s school and our community was overwhelming. The kindness, financial assistance, emotional comfort, and spiritual guidance we received were remarkable. This generosity, this profound display of love, will forever be cherished and deeply appreciated. Thank you, MONHS, for your unwavering support. To God be all the glory. Keisha’s memory, though tinged with sorrow, shines brightly, a reminder of the beautiful life she lived and the lasting impact she had on all of us. She may be gone, but her spirit, her light, will forever sparkle in our hearts.

SCI-TECH

DEADLY DUST

Talairon Construction poses health risks

by Tedj Fegi

T

he ongoing construction of a new hospital in Talairon, Oroquieta City, exposed residents to harmful inhalants of dust and gravel particles causing serious respiratory and even lung cancer risks.

“My day to day commute from home to school requires me to have constant vulnerability in inhaling these particles which results in my persistent coughing,” Hannah Jane Mascariñas, a resident in Talairon, honestly said.

While the human body has defense mechanisms to eliminate dust such as macrophages and white blood cells, these defenses weaken over time if the dust particles are too abundant or too large.

A study by Work Safe found that a concentration of just 10 milligrams per cubic meter over an 8-hour period of dust can contribute to skin irritation, lung inflammation, respiratory distress, and an increased risk of chronic pulmonary diseases.

“These irritant dust that ended up in my nasal passages inflamed the mucus membranes in my nose, causing it to trigger my rhinitis,” Elisha Pansinsoy, another resident from Talairon stated.

With the construction expected to last for more than a month, the ongoing exposure to this environmental pollution still raises serious concerns about the longterm health impact on residents, especially children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

MOUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

Mt. Malindang protection is considered ‘faulty,’ prompting government institutions to increase support.

by Tedj Fegi

The wondrous Mount Malindang, poeticized in the Misamis Occidental provincial anthem as “Ang Malindang nagtawag. Kanimo, andam motubag”, one of the many songs that proves this deep connection between the people and their natural environment. But as this guardian stands in a time of crisis, it raises important questions about the future of life’s protectors and the communities they sustain.

Mount Malindang has sustained Misamis Occidental for years. It is home to fertile rainforests, some of the last remaining big ones in Mindanao, which are teeming with biodiversity, including the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, the pride of the nation. Cola is vital to the region’s ecological balance, providing the colony with clean water and absorbing an estimated 200,000 tons of carbon dioxide and releasing around 146,000 tons of oxygen into the environment every year. A natural-park zone, it is also where the Philippines-Netherlands Biodiversity Research Programme (BRP) is based, underlining its scientific significance.

But in recent years there has been a worrying turn. Now the mountain does not absorb rainwater, and instead, quickly shuttles water into river systems, causing catastrophic flooding in the lowlands.

Combined with the mountain’s failure to stop the destructive floods, that has led some critics to question the effectiveness of the tower’s defense.

The view of the mountain standing guard is now marred by the reality of environmental destruction.

The cause? Sadly, part of the answer can be found in unsustainable practices of upland communities. However, poor farming practices, deforestation and lack of proper management of land has lowered the mountain’s capacity to regulate water flow significantly.

This jeopardizes the area’s unique biodiversity – including the Subanon tribe, who’s name is even based on the word “suba” – as well as the human population that relies on the mountain’s resources.

But the solution is not just conservation, it’s sustainable development. More government and private sector-led livelihood projects

in upland communities should be supported to find alternative sources of income that would break the cycle of dependency on environmentally destructive practices. Diversifying the economy with sustainable natural resource management is an investment in the environment, but also in the future of Misamis Occidental and its people.

The suffering of Mount Malindang is a cold reminder that protecting the environment is not just sitting around. Gaining this stability requires an interactive effort of us all and a research strategy that encompasses the entirety of the mountain community (states and local government) and also makes sure sustained practices to let these projects grow. The question now is: do we heed Malindang’s call? The future of this essential ecosystem— and the people who rely on it—is on a precipice.

SUSTAINABLE SEAS

SCI-TECH

Dybongco invents sustainable solar-powered fishing vessel prototype

by Conie Bugas

Traditional fishing methods are hard to operate and the reliance on diesel or petrol engines is too costly for fishermen.

As a result, Rizabelle Ianne L. Dybongco, a Grade 12 Science and Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) student from MONHS made a solar-powered boat as a prototype and alternative for fishermen by reducing their operational expenses, increasing their income, and ultimately improving their livelihood by offering a more sustainable and efficient fishing.

“This [study] has the potential to promote sustainability by introducing a renewable energypowered fishing vessel. This can reduce our reliance on traditional fuel-powered boats, lower costs for fishermen, and minimize environmental pollution,”

proclaimed.

According to the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines (.gov), solar-powered boats are very transformative technologies that address not only climate change mitigation but also support the livelihood and economy of communities. Thus in terms of sustainability, FIVESS opens an opportunity to renewable source of transport for the dominant fishermen source in the vast regions of the archipelago.

“This research has allowed me to see how science and innovation can really aid in solving life problems. It’s not only about new inventions but about creating things that can make a difference, like helping

sustainable fishing, and improving livelihoods, though it has minimal limitations related to development and testing.

here is a lack of small-scaled renewable energy sources available to communities, especially here in the Philippines because of economic challenges. Despite being the first sand generated prototype, due to perseverance, success after countless trials was as fine as sand.

From hardships to triumphs, “SandGen”, one of the first of its kind, a sand battery that utilizes solar energy gained spotlight after bagging fourth place in the Regional Science and Technology Fair (RSTF), with its researcher Sheizanrah Obani, a grade 10 learner from Misamis Occidental National High School (MONHS)

According to Obani, “The innovation sparked a unique impression that may have captured the panelists’ attention by promoting another way of embracing renewable source of energy. With that, the contribution of the device is beneficial to communities with a need for it.”

Here in the Philippines, with an abundance of sand in coastal areas particularly due to being an archipelago, one of the innovative ideas Obani got was harnessing energy to power up in beaches, even in barangays where sand is near.

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, studies are now digging the potential of the ability of sand to be used to create energy on demand and store it in the long term. Featuring an energy-generating model, SandGen has the ability to turning heat from absorbing the sand with its own generative properties.

Showcasing a similar strategy like how other renewable resources such as hydropower, geothermal, and solar plants—the prototype paves a modern path for sustainable power production.

However, being in a research situation that dealt with it being new, Obani added that the process of doing the study made her run through different challenges, which gave her a rough time and at a moment caused her to lose hope.

“Since the SandGen is the first sand generated prototype, the trial-and-error period of the device must be the most difficult part of the whole study, especially at a time the weather was not quite favorable for the testing. It

gave me a lot of discouragement and the time-crunch was stressful,” Obani expressed.

In order to bounce from a low point, her perseverance and strong support lifted her up and made her regain strength to continue her study.

With a purpose to carry, her solid deal to helping coastal communities and even a nationwide scale, Obani’s “first of its kind” study opened a door to profound potential by bringing future energy generating innovations to heat from sand as its source. Because of persisting through, despite numerous setbacks, her journey of strength and effort made its way to the top.

Sand as material will then have a prospective approach in powering future communities with this innovation. - Sheizanrah Obani

Shackles of Disparities

I

’ve always had this thought in my head: Why is someone immediately labeled as “gay” or “lesbian” when they play a sport dominated by the opposite gender? Everyone supposed to have the right to enjoy sports, but with gender still being a huge basis, I’ve come to terms with the fact that even after countless attempts to advocate for equality, we are still a generation who’s trapped in past stereotypes and sexism. No, it’s not just some shallow debate of superiority, but rather a societal issue of inclusion and acceptance that’s still severely ignored.

The lack of female representation in MONHS, especially in sports is disappointing. What’s more is the constant discrimination women and the LGBTQIA+ community face from not only from students but also teachers. Instead of educating for good, this school is the one failing us by still serving inequality and not urging for proper change. In fact, men aren’t the only ones capable as gender is not a foundation for someone’s abilities.

Gymnast and an LGBTQIA+ member Carlo Ceballos revealed that people doubted him because he’s gay. Furthermore, the overload rules for men to cut their hair short was also a factor for his hesitation to join. Despite being a power house, Monhs is still a place of prejudice. Equality in treatment and equity in competitions is what the school should follow but the disparity is what causes us to lag behind because promising students aren’t supported enough due to gender biases.

Moreover, The Nation said that this stems from misinterpretations of biological differences which is unfortunately prevalent in this school. I believe anything a man can do, women can do too as it’s not a matter of strengths but ability and passion competing. It’s time to start accepting and not just tolerating because in the end, everyone deserves to be comfortable and happy.

We all have the ability to excel but this school isn’t doing us justice. Sports is a space for passion and inclusion but it is tainted with inequality which is why there is a need to change this. Monhs needs to go beyond just tolerance and embrace true equality. Ability, dedication and love for sports should be the basis and not stereotypes.

Let’s start by promoting equal opportunities for everyone. Ensuring quality education and programs to avoid gender-based discrimination can evoke a new type of acceptance and inclusivity among students. Lastly, female and LGBTQ athletes should be set as examples in order to encourage and promote promising athletes.

COMEBACK DENIED

OroTreasures bow to Tangub,

Fighting Maroons dominated the 1st set with their continuos attacks, but Tangub strengthened their defense, outpowering Oroquieta with a 6-point lead.

However, Fighting Maroons managed to take the lead after consecutive aces and blocks, with Kemph Yuri Lumayaga carrying his team with his consistent attacks and defense, tying the match in a 1-1 score.

The game became intense in the last set of the match, with both teams’ scores close to each other, climbing their way to the win and

grab the chance of going against the defending champions, Misamis Occidental.

Unfortunately, the two main players from the Fighting Maroons experienced cramps during the crucial part of the game with a close score of 22-22, giving Tangub the chance to outpower Oroquieta, ending the match with a 25-23 score.

“That was really so unfortunate for us. We were really aiming high and hoping to get the championship but fell short in our semi finals game,” expressed John Lloyd Canoy after the loss.

The Fighting Maroons won against Tangub in the preliminary rounds with a clean sweep, 25-17, 25-20. However, the luck took turns in the semifinals.

“Hapit na gyud unta, we were on our way kay amo man silang napilde sa first nga laban namo and dako kaayo ug biya, but na outpower lang gyud mi nila sa semi tungod sa injured players namo,” Lumayaga said.

With this loss, the Fighting Maroons failed to get their revenge against Misamis Occidental, after they lost against them in the finals last Provincial Meet, which had left them hungry for redemption.

Orotreasure’s pitching skills led victory, strikes Tangub, 6-3

by CHRISTON DELA CRUZ

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL — A spectacular game to the Oroquieta Baseball team as they bagged a 6-3 victory over Tangub on December 12, 2024 in a spectacular display of skill and determination.

John Steve Siete’s consistent pitching excellence was the tool in securing the win, resulting in a total of five strikeouts. His impressive performance put pressure on Tangub’s lineup and ultimately led to Oroquieta’s victory.

Moreover, Kyle Del Pilar’s early homerun provided a crucial boost, giving Oroquieta an early lead that would prove difficult for Tangub to overcome.

Von Axel Quiap also made significant contributions, striking out two players from the opposing team and helping Oroquieta gain an advantage.

Before their big win against Tangub, Oro Baseball Team had already shown their mettle in a series of tune-up games

leading up to the Palaro. In these matches, the team has shown strength and cohesion, securing consecutive wins, including the recent 6-3 victory over Tangub.

Lifted by this success, the team is now focusing on maintaining their winning streak as they prepare for upcoming matches.

Oroquieta’s victory is a testament to the team’s hard work and determination, and they will look to continue their success in future matches.

First time attempt: get back with gold in their eyes

s MONHS was filled with great athletes, they have made a great feat as they shine like a diamond yet hidden under the pocket waiting to be seen. Even if this was their first time competing, gymanstics from MONHS has taken medals proving that they can keep their heads high even when their event is newly established.

Enough with the days and time, yet the team remained faithful with their training program. They faced many challenges and repeated activities that proved their

resiliency and consistency in competing at the highest level despite having limited time for preparation.

“Although gymnastics is new, I think I’ve found my talent here; we’ve also bagged medals from the Provincial Meet, which is already a significant achievement for us,” Carlos Ceballos, a gymnast and former volleyball player, shared.

Yet, he mentioned the lack of proper training as a significant drawback for gymnastics, especially since it is still a relatively new sport at MONHS.

Moreover, he stated that

the main factor affecting their performance is the lack of an experienced coach, as they are unfamiliar with the necessary techniques, which further delays their progress and prevents them from fully reaching their full potential.

“Our coach is still not familiar with the terminologies or the training routines. We still have a long way to go,” he said.

Additionally, this sport has recently gained popularity among students, especially following the success of Carlos Edrian Yulo, an Olympic gold medalist. His remarkable achievement made

them realize that gymnastics is not only fun but also mentally and physically challenging, despite the stigma that it’s a sport primarily for women.

“I think Carlos Yulo represents us,” he added.

Although they failed to qualify for the Northern Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (NMRAA), the athletes remain hopeful of competing again next year. They aim to promote gymnastics among students, inspire greater participation, foster school spirit, and ultimately expand their community for future success.