Rheims | June 2022 by The Lasallian Rheims

CONTENTS

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

EDITORIAL BOARD A.Y. 2022-2023

ETHAN NIVERA

RINEAI VENTOSO SOFIA MALVAR

Editor-in-Chief

MR. KENT BRYAN COLOCADO Adviser

Artists

TRISHA ILAR ZOELINE HONRADO

MS. VICTORIA GALLARDO Vice Principal

ALIXIA CANALIN Layout

Writers

MR. RICHARD PINEDA Principal

MR. LAWRENCE FERNANDO

MS. DAISY ROMERO

Contributor

School Consultant

Alere Flammam Veritatis

THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS facebook.com/Rheims2020 @Rheims2020 The Lasallian Rheims official.rheims@gmail.com

WHAT'S

INSIDE? 3

NEWS First F2F Honors Day Conducted After Two Years

LITERARY

Enchanted Start

ASJ kickstarts classes for SY 22-23

NDRRMC, OCD conduct 2nd Quarter NSED 2022

Pretend

Marcos administration officially begins its six-year term

DaILY

OPINION My Money Don’t Jiggle Jiggle, It Falls! // NBYRM

Paint

To Moving On and To Move Forward // Lex Talk

A Star's View

FEATURES Independence Day: In Today's Time

Back 2 School

JUNE 2022 // NEWS

First F2F Honors Day Conducted After Two Years ETHAN NIVERA PHOTO SOURCE | ASJ FB PAGE

he Academy of Saint John conducted the Undergraduates’ Honors Day face-to-face on June 25 & 26, the first in two years.

ers, and your parents, and your guardians,

Grades 1 to 4 were recognized on the 25th, Saturday, while the nursery, and Grades 5, 7, 8, 9 and 11 were honored on the next day, on the 26th. However, the nursery level’s honors day was only live streamed on the school’s Facebook page.

think about the very people in your respective classes who may not be exemplary in terms of their scholastics, in other fields. But these may be individuals or people or classmates who crack a joke and who make you feel happy. If there is someone who checks the attendance in class, he may not be the top notch person in your class. But the gift that just making each one of you accounted for is something to be happy about.”

Despite all levels (except for the nursery) celebrating their honors day face-to-face, all parts of the event were also live streamed via Facebook for stay-in-home students, parents, and other members of the ASJ community.

“Like Mirabel, we are one big ASJ family, Madrigal family that should all acknowledge every contribution that is not to be considered inferior, but one that is contributory to our achieving the vision and mission of this institution,” he added.

During his opening remarks on the Grade 5 and 7’s Honors Day, ASJ's Supervisor and Luzon Superintendent for LASSO Schools Mr. Jose Ramelle P. Javier considered the event as a “wonderful and big-time family affair,” relating it to the Disney movie “Encanto”.

In his speech during the Grade 8 and 9’s Honors Day, Mr. Ramelle stated that if he could, he would ask the artist to remake the art (pertaining to the image of Saint La Salle teaching young boys present in the background of the stage) with the faces of everyone in the ASJ community.as the children Saint La Salle is talking to.

“You are all being honored today, our dear ASJ students, young men and women, because of the wonderful work that you have done. The good Lord has entrusted you with gifts, that you now propagate and allow others to experience,” Javier said. “Other than honoring each one of you, and as you honor also your teach-

“I am no artist, I am no visual artist, but I can imagine vividly, and picture how this image can be transformed into its 2022 version,” he said.

The most awaited part of the event, the honors day, followed afterwards. Awardees were given their respective medals and certificates as they rose up the stage and proudly displayed themselves in front of teachers, parents, and other students. “Although I had taken part in a lot of recognition ceremonies during my time as a student, it was honestly refreshing to take part in a F2F one, especially because I haven't come to the school for like 2 years na. It was a change of pace that I didn't know I needed, pero at the same time, I was nervous because I hadn't seen my classmates and batchmates in a face-to-face setup, not even once during online classes,” Grade 11 awardee Aaron Barcelita said. Benedict Barbuco, Grade 9 awardee, also expressed his joy towards the event. “I felt very happy and definitely was very excited because we got the chance to go to the school again after two long years. It was fun meeting my batchmates who I haven't seen for a while. It was a fun experience that we got to practice on-site again,” Barbuco said. Finally, students and teachers proudly sang the Alma Mater hymn and later, ended the event with the recession. [R]

The event started with a procession, which was quickly followed by a prayer and the singing of the National Anthem.

PHOTO SOURCE | ASJ FB PAGE

NEWS // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

ASJ kickstarts classes for SY 22-23 ETHAN NIVERA

After

two months of summer vacation, the Academy of Saint John officially began its classes for School Year 20222023 on June 14, 2022. In a circular, the school announced that it would shift from Full Online Distance learning to Blend-Flex and will follow the MWF and TTH schedule for all levels except pre-school. ASJ is one of the three private schools in General Trias that was given a certificate of compliance and a safety seal by DepEd Region IV-A on April 21, 2022. The first week, wherein teachers introduced students to their respective sections, was conducted online via Zoom meetings. All orientations, including airclass regulations, subject orientations, Life of Saint John, History of ASJ, School Emblem, grading system and other handbook contents were also held virtually during the first two weeks. The first “First Friday Mass” was celebrated on the first week of the school year, wherein Mr. Richard Pineda, school principal, thanked the staff, parents, and the ASJ community as a whole for their continued trust in the academy. “Finally, I welcome you all to school year 2022-2023. After two long years, I guess, the worst is over. And we will continue to

pray that it will stay that way. This year, we will begin a new chapter in our school’s history.” “This year, we celebrate our 20th founding anniversary. Also this year is the beginning of partial face-to-face classes. I know that everybody is all excited to finally meet old and new friends. As ASJ has delivered quality instruction for 20 years, that commitment is still very much alive today,” he said. During the second week, practices for the Undergraduates’ Honors Day were conducted. All non-graduating batches were told to report to the school, each given different schedules. Finally, on the 25th, students from Grades 1-4 were honored for their outstanding performance throughout the past school year. The next day, on the 26th, students from Grades 5, 7, 8, 9 and 11 were also recognized. Despite the event being held face-to-face, all parts were live streamed via the school’s Facebook page. The Honors Day the Nursery level was streamed on Facebook.

for live

Only two weeks have passed yet students and teachers alike have already expressed their excitement for this school year.

very happy that the progress ASJ is making is very evident. “I see this (shift to blend-flex) as a positive thing, because I miss my classmates and I miss the classroom. You know, learning in the classroom with all the students and the teachers in front of them can bring such a different vibe… It feels better than learning online, where we experience internet problems,” he said. Thomas Lirio, Grade 12 student, said that for his last year in the school, he expects that students would enjoy themselves and participate in more festive programs. “I only need one word for all of these questions, and that is ‘exciting’. Exciting because we’re going to learn new things, subjects, and face challenging assessments, seatworks, assignments, and quizzes,” Lirio stated. Now that ASJ has hit a new milestone with its 20th anniversary, an exciting year truly awaits us all. As Mr Richard said, “Enjoy wonderful engagements with your classmates and teachers as well. I pray that you will all have wonderful learning experiences in the Academy of Saint John, Animo La Salle!” [R]

Grade 10 student Favio Potente stated that he is PHOTO SOURCE | FILE

JUNE 2022 // NEWS

NDRRMC, OCD conduct 2nd Quarter NSED 2022

ETHAN NIVERA

The

National Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) spearhead the Second Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) 2022, June 9, 9:00 a.m. The NSED is a quarterly activity organized to enhance and test the earthquake preparedness of local government units, institutions, and companies, and to educate the general public about earthquakes and the importance of earthquake preparedness. Prior to the exercise, government units from different provinces released memorandums signifying their participation in the event. Hundreds of schools, facilities, and companies from all over the country and thousands of people from the public participated in the exercise. The Office of the Undersecretary for Administration also enjoined schools and offices across all levels of the Department of Education to partake in the NSED.

The Academy of Saint John also joined the exercise. ASJ faculty and staff took part in the event by performing the necessary precautions imposed by the NDRRMC. In relation to the event, the OCD conducted a webinar on “DRRM Across Sectors: Navigating Resilience in Migrant Work, Urban Settlements and the Informal Working Environment” on June 6, 2022. “This webinar aims to discuss the importance of disaster preparedness among urban, poor, non-government organization, formal labor, and migrant workers, and informal sector workers to reduce the impact of disasters through proper information and proactive practice,” Mr Raffy Lucas, Office of the Civil Defense – Capacity Building & Training Service and moderator of the webinar, said. NDRRMC encourages everyone to be prepared at any time and to participate in programs and activities that aim to strengthen the preparedness of every citizen and family from the threats of earthquakes and other hazards. [R]

IN PHOTOS: ASJ faculty and staff participate in the nationwide earthquake drill, June 09.

NEWS // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

Marcos administration officially begins its six-year term ETHAN NIVERA

Ferdinand

“Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has been sworn in as the 17th President of the Philippines on June 30, 12:00 noon Marcos Jr. took his oath at the National Museum of Fine Arts. Prior to his inauguration, actress Toni Gonzaga sang the national anthem, which was followed by an ecumenical prayer led by several religious leaders. Afterwards, a 30-minute military-civic parade wherein soldiers and frontliners paraded along Padre Burgos Avenue. Military vehicles, tanks, and war planes were also showcased during the parade. Marcos’ running mate, Sara Duterte, who took her oath on June 19, attended her partner’s inauguration. Former first lady Imelda Marcos and Marcos’ family also attended his inauguration. Meanwhile, former president Rodrigo Duterte wasn’t able to attend the event. A

significant

number

of his BBM’s supporters also witnessed the inauguration. Before Marcos’ oath, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III read the Joint Resolution proclaiming Marcos and Duterte as the President and Vice President of the Philippines respectively. Meanwhile, Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo administered Marcos’ oath of office. After the oath, a 21-gun salute was fired in honor of the new president. Also following the oath, Marcos Jr. delivered his first presidential speech wherein he thanked everyone who supported him and his campaign, stating that this inauguration is “a historic moment for everyone.” “I feel it deep within me. You, the people, have spoken, and it is resounding. When my call for unity started to resonate with you, it did so because it echoed your yearnings, mirrored your sentiments, and expressed your hopes for family, for country

and for a better future.” Marcos also used his speech to discuss his plans for the next six years, assuring everyone that he would be a leader who will help the Philippines improve its economy and grow into a more prosperous country. “You will not be disappointed, so do not be afraid,” Marcos said. “We will go farther together, than against each other; pushing forward, not pulling each other back — out of fear, out of a misplaced sense of weakness. But we are the farthest from weak. The Filipino diaspora flourishes even in the most inhospitable climes, where they’re valued for their quality. The changes we seek will benefit all and will shortchange no one,” he added. This event marks the start of the Marcos-Duterte administration’s six-year term. [R]

PHOTO SOURCE | INQUIRER.net

JUNE 2022 // OPINION

My Money Don’t Jiggle Jiggle, It Falls! NBYRM // Ethan Nivera

...I’d like to see you wiggle wiggle, for sure. Who

doesn’t love spending money? A beautiful shirt with a 40% discount? I’m taking it! Your favorite artist will have a concert near your area? I’ll buy a ticket now! A cheap K-POP album? Count me in! New skins on your favorite game? Sure thing! FOOD?? YES PLEASE!! Whatever it is, it’s almost inevitable to spend money on things we want. Whether you’re a heavy spender or a light spender, we’ll always want to buy something to satisfy our wants. Now that I’ve got you interested, you’re pretty much trapped in this conversation, and since we’ve already started talking about money, then let’s talk money. If you still didn’t know, the Philippine peso (PHP) continues to depreciate, now at ₱55.04 = $1 as of time of writing. Yes, you read that right, the value of our beloved money inside of our wallets is starting to fall and has already breached the ₱55 = $1 resistance barrier. The last time the peso traded at an intraday low that breached ₱55 = $1 was back on Oct. 25, 2005, more than 16 years ago, at 55.15 = $1, according to Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort. Trading closed at ₱55.26 = $1 on that day. Oh, and yes, the Philippine peso is now ASEAN’s worst performer. The inflation in the United States has reached its highest in 40 years, hitting 8.6% back in May. In response to this, the US Fed steeply raised its benchmark interest rate, affecting the currencies of every country in the world, and of course, including the Philippines. In a report back in April, London-based company Capital Economics warned that expensive imports like oil would weaken the peso this year and further slow down the Philippines’ transition to economic recovery. It predicted the Philippine peso to become one of the worst-performing Asian currencies from 2022 to 2024; depreciating to ₱54 = $1 in 2022 and further weakening to ₱55 again by 2023 and 2024.

At first sight, an addition of a few pesos

or centavos to our currency doesn’t seem that bad, we all have a few coins in our house after all. But let’s try to see how it looks like in the long run. Due to the peso’s weaker value, imports would be more expensive for our country. For example, the already increasing price of oil due to the war between Russia and Ukraine would further increase due to the costlier imports. I’m afraid that if the peso continues to depreciate, trade would be much harder for us and we’d fall further behind our neighboring countries. Due to imports being more expensive, prices of goods and services would also increase, especially now that foreign products dominate the market. Yes, even our favorite sari-sari stores dun sa kanto aren’t even safe from inflation, nothing is. Of course, if our beloved tinderos and tinderas don’t increase their price to combat the increasing prices in the market, then it’s most likely that they’d fall behind! In Tagalog, malulugi talaga sila. As someone who has just learned about economics last year, I don’t really have much to say on this, nor do I think people can do something to fully solve inflation. I believe that when it comes to inflation, only the government can solve it. As citizens, the best we can do is to rely on ourselves and as much as possible, try to help those who are struggling due to inflation. Try to spend our money wisely and only purchase what’s essential; food, water, bills, and whatnot. Of course if some spare cash is available, never forget to satisfy our wants and cravings. In spite of this economic problem which affects our wallets drastically, we need to remember that if there’s one thing we should take care of the most, that would be our mental health. Expect the Philippine peso’s value to further lower in the coming weeks, maybe even months. The pandemic has taken a huge toll on our economy and now, I’m afraid that even a few centavos would hurt a lot for us, and will have a huge impact on our economic recovery. [R]

OPINION

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

To Moving On and To Moving Forward LEX TALK // Mr. Lawrence Fernando

It has been two issues since I have not

I personally take on this as an advocacy. An advocacy to open more eyes through released an article here. I have no ex- educating the next generation. For them to cuse but just simply maybe I have yet to be more open to ideas and perspectives. have the courage and words to face what And through education, I believe, we can had happened last Presidential elec- hold the line so that Truth is still Power. tions. The “Liwanag” that a lot of us have put our stakes on was decimated. We As part of new beginnings, I would like could continue talking about what went to share that a new organization to be led by wrong and who’s to blame but that would sir Bidj, sir Renz, and I would be launched only be an endless cycle of debate and soon. This would focus on opening up dispointing fingers. That was it. We lost. course and ideas. Sir Kent and Ms. Cha However, as I would have always said as my motto, war should not be written by who won or who lost but by how it was fought. The opponents played the game and has been playing this for the longest time. We, as I believe, are just starting. As have been since in the past few months, a larger sector of society has been awakened and energized. That is why we must not lose track. We must stand on principle and continue to open more people’s eyes to the Truth. “Ang mulat ay ‘di na kailanman muling pipikit.”

are also included in our bunch as consultants. Stand by for more updates on that. So, let’s now all move forward and do our part in making a better Filipino society. Not just for the few but if not for the most, but for the marginalized. [R]

JUNE 2022 // FEATURES

Independence Day: In Today’s Time TRISHA ILAR

Nationalism is nourished by a sense of history. It is of its essence to know profoundly the past, so that we may be in complete openness with the men who made that history and in intimate communion with their thoughts, their deeds, and their noble lives." - Claro M. Recto, Jr. On the twelfth of June 1898, the Filipinos led by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo first raised our flag, played our national anthem, and declared our freedom from Spanish rule. However, this did not last long as the Americans failed to respect the independence of the Philippines but granted the Philippines self-rule later on. On July 4, 1946, we were officially granted sovereignty by the United States. As it may seem contradictory, the independence we got on July 4 is more like a gift than the self-proclaimed hard-earned freedom we had on June 12. As proclaimed by the former president Diosdado Macapagal in 1962, June 12 was officially declared as a public holiday, Independence Day. This significant date to us Filipinos symbolizes the firm resolution and sacrifices of our national heroes, from the awakening of united spirits to bloody sacrifices in different battles. All the oppression, slavery, sexual abuse, education inequality, and forced labor from the colonizers fueled the pursuit of freedom. Indeed, it is one of the most valuable dates in our history. In this, the 124th anniversary year, President Duterte led the celebration in Luneta Park. The flag was proudly raised and he offered flowers to the monument of Jose Rizal and paid respect. The Philippine Air Force also took part in the ceremonial flight that leaves behind blue, red, yellow, and white smokes that rekindle the symbolism of the flag's colors. An Independence Day concert was also held in the auditorium in Luneta Park in Manila. Despite the big pour of rain around 5 in the afternoon that day, Filipinos flocked to the park to

celebrate the momentous occasion. The youth also took part and commemorated how Independence Day is a symbol of a fresh start wherein we are not controlled by any colonizer. Despite not being in the Philippines, OFWs and Filipinos in other countries waved flags and remembered the day fondly. Furthermore, despite being scattered across the country, Filipinos became inventive in their celebrations and adaptations to the modern era. The schools and different organizations held seminars and activities that nurtured the young minds. Social media was used as a platform to express oneself through posts and quotes. The television and radio channels commemorated the day as well, through special airings and the playing of the national anthem. The celebration with a ceremony was not only held in Manila but also in different parts of the country. Nowadays, Filipinos are as free as birds in the sky. However, despite this freedom we enjoy now, many tend to forget how much it took to attain it. Most Filipinos of today fail to realize that in exchange for this freedom, millions of heroes sacrificed themselves despite being uncertain of victory. We don’t just celebrate Independence day as a commemoration of the event held 124 years ago; the Philippines’ Independence day serves as a time for Filipinos to reflect on who we really are and what we’re capable of doing, especially during rough times. Ever wonder why we don’t call Filipinos during the colonial era “commoners” during history class? It’s because those “commoners” discovered what they’re capable of doing in the name of our country. We don’t call them “commoners” because they’re unworthy of being called that, instead I think the better term would be “heroes”. To the one reading this right now, if time comes when our freedom is taken away from us once more, are you ready to discover what you’re truly capable of and become a “hero”? [R] PHOTO SOURCE | PhilStar

FEATURES // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

Back 2 school ZOELINE HONRADO

A fter 2 months of summer vacation, we’re back, once again. With our computer,

headset, keyboard, and mouse, we prepare ourselves as we engage in this new school year ahead of us. In the Zoom meeting, as we turn on our cameras and open our mics, the overwhelming presence of everyone scatters throughout the screen as we meet each other again after a long period of time. The mixed excitement and pressure truly makes the experience seem more fun. Throughout its 20 years of service, ASJ has faced many difficult challenges including the pandemic, yet the community never falters and continues to further bloom and prosper. Even if it was hard for us to adjust with this new normal, we still managed to get through them successfully. Looking back at our previous academic years, we’ve faced the unexpected challenge of learning online; with both the students and teachers having a hard time. It was hard at first, but even through what seemed like an impossible battle, we remained triumphant. Two years is already long enough for us to realize that we’ve missed a lot. Because of the online learning modality, it was hard for us to conduct some activities we usually do face-to-face. But this year, I have high hopes that we will be able to go back to how things were before! It’s actually better for me to keep an optimistic self, especially since I’ve really missed a lot in my high school life. For this year, I expect a lot more activities to be held, of course, now that we’re partly face-to-face. Activities such as ALK (Araw ng Lahing Kayumanggi) contests, JS prom, the school’s 20th founding anniversary, Christmas party, and many more. As much as I want the old system back (when it was full face-to-face), I still can’t help but worry about everyone’s safety. I want a safe yet fun school year for me and the other students to enjoy. As long as everyone’s safety is prioritized, and everyone is having a great time, this school year will be one that would etch a mark in the history of the school forever. As we embark on a new chapter of our lives with this new school year, let us all remind ourselves that Covid-19 is still here and will most likely stay for quite some time, just not as harmful as it was before. It is better if we remain protective of ourselves and others. Anyhow, I want everyone to enjoy this school year. As we meet our friends and teachers once again, and as we enter this new school year, let us continue to raise our thirst for knowledge and seek for more authentic learning. Now, as we embark on this new school year, where things seem very different from what we had the past two years, let’s all remind ourselves of what Many Hale once said: “Change can be scary, but you know what’s scarier? Allowing fear to stop you from growing, evolving, and progressing.” [R] PHOTO SOURCE | FILE

JUNE 2022 // LITERARY

E N C H A N T E D S TA R T A jovial blessing came upon a woman The news was it will bear a child! Days passed by with joy and worries Excitement and nervousness fill the room Tiny eyes roam over the gigantic room A huge chair and an enormous door The small body trembles and cries A gentle and warm eyes laid upon Suddenly, the room felt soothing Big yet enchanting arms reached out The teensy feet wiggles as it was caressed The large room then was filled with a cute laughter Then the little feet was lifted off The baby felt nervous again The moment its body was hugged, It filled the baby with bliss and ease A tear came down the cheeks of the woman A glimpse of hope shimmers once again Another purpose for the mother to be strong The baby's smile that wiped all her worries It is yet another day filled of love A memorable day to last The starting point of life The heartwarming welcome into this world - Trisha Ilar

LITERARY

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

PRETEND At that time when I was a complete mess, You made me feel worthy of “love” and “happiness”, “Words are better with action.” Yet only through your words, I felt compassion. “I want you.” “I miss you.” “I love you.” Words that would be better if they were true. You became my most precious treasure. I wanted to keep you forever. But turns out, I did it wrong again... Another relationship I forced to happen. I know you don’t see me in the same way, But I don’t want this feeling to end. I’ll just go along with your role play. While wishing that everything isn’t pretend. - Zoeline Honrado

JUNE 2022 // LITERARY

daILY Eyes open, yet body’s asleep But suddenly awake, as I hear my phone beep A notification, a message from you I blushed, as my tender heart flew Coffee’s hot, yet I do not blow Cause I’m really excited to see ya’, did you know? I dress up nicely, and go on my way Then proceed on with our wonderful day That’s my daily life with you, Everyday with you always feels new Remember that no matter what they say, I’ll only love you anyway - Ethan Nivera

LITERARY

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

PAINT The small drop of paint Brushed delicately by him Filled with emotions - Trisha Ilar

JUNE 2022 // LITERARY

A STAR’S VIEW What’s it like down there? I can see your every move. Why is this my fate?

- Zoeline Honrado

Art by: Rineai De Leon