LSVMS Boy Scouts attend Second One Regional Jamborette

Salanga, Jeven C. Viacrucis, , and Kevin C. Viacrucis; eight Senior Scouts from the Secondary Level namely: Janrez B. Bacaltos, Ralph Zouga D. Baldoza, Jerick Gleen M. Gallaza, Joshua T. Padaoan, Reden P. Pagal, Adrenaline C. Salie, Kenneth Rafael G. Tantoco, and Kurt Rafael C. Villegas; and eight Eagle Scouts namely: Jonas R. Alojan, John Emmer S. Gamo, Oliver M. Ines, Angel Jake M. Lobaton, Joster M. Mina, Julius Ian Cyrus G. Regodos, Ronit Jay S. Sapar, and Jeremiah G. Tamparong.

“In one of the activities, we needed to climb a wall using rope which was very slippery that I almost surrendered. But I thought, I must not skip any of the areas or

Rosero champions Regional Science Festival Quiz BeeBY HANNAH KIM LIM

Third year high school Kezia Charity Rosero won the championship for the Third Year level in the Regional Science Festival held at Bansud National High School, Oriental Mindoro on September 6-8, 2012.

Rosero who will be representing Region IV-B in the National Science Festival where she will be competing with winners from other regions in February 2013 said her journey to becoming a victor is not just all fun and glory. “Preparations before the competitions were nerve-wracking.”

“I never expected to win the Regionals but because of my schoolmates’ and teachers’ support

and my parents’ encouragement , I had the strength to win the competition,” she added.

Rosero first competed in the Division Science Festival held in Roxas National Comprehensive High School (RNCHS) in Roxas, Palawan, last August 2012,with fellow contestants from Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish School and San Francisco Javier College.

Kezia’s coaches Mrs. Ma Theresa M. Mina, LSVMS Science/Math Coordinator and Mrs. Marilou M. Madalogdog, Chemistry Teacher said they have high hopes that Kezia will be able to make it to the top in the upcoming National Science Festival.

stayed until October 26.Highlights of the LSGH visit

included the Orientation conducted by Mr. Alexander R. Borbon, Chair of the Academic Coordinators, Grade School Department, the class observations and campus tour arranged for the LSVMS teachers, and the message given by Mr. Ramelle Javier LSGH Grade School Principal.

“It was indeed an unforgettable experience to be given this privilege to observe a class of one of the prestigious schools in the country,” Math teacher Mrs. Gemilyn Calderon said.

“The way the teachers facilitated learning inside the classroom was really impressive,” Science Teacher, Mr. Gildo Gujilde added.

The next day, the group went to Cavite to visit St. Edward Integrated School where former LSVMS LASSO Supervisor and Superintendent Dr. John T. Cabalo is the School Head.

Dr. Cabalo conducted a session with the group on the topic: Teaching Tips for Challenging Behaviors and accompanied them to Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite and Museo De La Salle in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

The tour culminated with the

LSVMS visits La Salle Green Hills The Faculty, Staff, and

Employees Association (FASEA) of Leonides S. Virata Memorial School (LSVMS) visited La Salle Green Hills (LSGH) in Mandaluyong City last October 22-25, 2012 as part of its Educational Trip to Manila.

Upon their arrival at LSGH on October 22, the forty Seven FASEA members who joined the trip were welcomed by Assistant Principal and LSVMS LASSO Supervisor, Mrs. Agnes C. Alonsozana who accompanied them to the Retreat House where the participants

BY KEZIA CHARITY E. ROSERO

Vision - Mission: Leonides S. Virata Memorial School is a globally competitive community that is founded on the genuine Lasallian virtues at the service of others.

BY KEZIA CHARITY E. ROSERO

A day of honor and gratitude. (left photo) Mrs. Lorymer Faith M. Gujelde shares how thankful she is for all the benefits RTNMC has given to her;(right photo) RTNMC Senior Vice President Mr. Martin Antonio G. Zamora (third to the left), together with Resident Mine Manager Engr. Philipp D. Ines (left) and RTNMC Senior Vice President for Operations Engr. Jose S. Saret (second to the left) awards Mrs. Merlita Edica (right) for her 25 years of service.Photo Courtesy: RTNMC

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Division Science Festival.Mr. Raul Marin (right) dons the medal to Kezia Rosero (left) for being the champion dur-ing the closing of Division Science Festi-val last August 2012 In Roxas, Palawan

Twenty four boy scouts from Leonides S. Virata Memorial School (LSVMS) together with Scout Master Mr. Jay M. Maravilla and boy scouts from the National Capital Region (NCR), Bicol Region (BR), and Southern Tagalog Region (STR) participated in the 2nd One Southern Luzon Regional Scout

challenges, so I went up again, tried to find a way or strategy to climb the wall, and I was able to successfully do it. I learned that there will always be a way to solve the challenges,” boy Scout Jeven Viacrucis shared.

“ I am so proud of our scouts who showed discipline and responsibility all throughout the jamborette” Scout Master Jay Maravilla added.

After the Regional Jamborette, the scouts proceeded to join the 2012 Provincial Scout Jamborette held in Puerto Princesa City last December 7-10, 2012 where 20 Elementary Boy Scouts were awarded the National Award for First Class Rank, and 15 LSVMS Venturer Scouts underwent the National Board of Review for Eagle Scout Rank.

BY JOANNA VIA PATRIZE T. JALOCON

Jamborette in Mt. Makiling, Los Baños, Laguna on November 25-30,2012

The Regional Jamborette with the theme “Scouting: Messengers of Peace” had its Grand Opening Ceremony with Laguna Governor E.R. “El Presidente” Ejercito as the guest speaker on November 28,

2012. The main activities held the

following day for the boy scouts were based on the “Troop Outdoor Challenge” with five modules namely: Module I – Challenge Valley, Module II – Camp Engineering, Module III – Wilderness Hunters, Module IV – Discovery World, and Module V – Life and Nature while the senior scouts and the Eagle Scouts had the “Outfit High Adventure” with Module I – Survivors, Module II – Backwoodsman, Module III – N a v i g a t o r s , Module IV – Team Builders, and Module V – Heal the Earth.

The LSVMS contingent that

formed part of the 75 scouts and scout masters representing the Palawan-Puerto Princesa Delegation was represented by eight Boy Scouts from the Elementary Level namely: Avelino C. Abiog III, Ralph Brentz R. Agot, Julius Cedrick F. Dacyon, Mohammad Farhan S. Jaafar, Jefrey D. Romasanta, Seth Nicholas S.

RTNMC holds 32nd Awarding Ceremony

– 10 Year Awardees; Mrs. Mary Whildee P. Amores and Mrs. Marilou A. Madalogdog - 15 Years Awardees; Mrs. Vilma J. Enanoria – 20 Year Awardee; and Mrs. Merlita C. Edica - 25 Year Awardee.

Grade One Adviser and English Teacher Mrs. Gujelde gave her response on behalf of the 10 Year awardees; Third Year Adviser and Science Teacher, Mrs. Madalogdog for the 15 Year Awardees, and Grade Three Adviser and Filipino Teacher Mrs. Vilma J. Enaroria for the 20 year awardees.

All of them expressed their gratitude to RTNMC particularly to Atty. Manuel B. Zamora Jr. for helping them achieve their dreams in life.

The program ended with the closing remarks delivered by Executive Committee Chairman of the 32nd Awards Day, Mr. Jovencio P. Fernandez.

Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC) held the 32nd Awards Day with the theme “RTNMC Advocates and Leads Responsible Mining that Builds Hopes and Dreams” on December 11, 2012 at the RTN Gymnasium.

The event which recognized employees who have been in service for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years was attended by RTNMC Chairman Atty. Manuel B. Zamora Jr., RTNMC Senior Vice President Mr. Martin Antonio G. Zamora, RTNMC Senior Vice President for Operations Engr. Jose S. Saret, and RTNC Resident Mine Manager Engr. Philipp D. Ines,

Seven of the 42 awardees who received a trophy, cash, and a cellular phone or wristwatch were LSVMS educators, namely: Mr. Rogel A. Alcantara, Mrs. Gemilyn D. Calderon and Mrs. Lorymer Faith M. Gujelde

group’s visit to the Botanical Garden, Intramuros, National Science Museum and Ocean Park on October 25.

Utility Aides Rey Alipo-on and Carlo Docto consider the Educational Trip to Manila a life changing experience for them who

were given the opportunity to ride the plane and visit Manila for the first time.

FASEA President Mrs. Nancy V. Sta. Ana acknowledged the support of RTNMC and CBNC through RTNFI for this learning experience.

Palawan Eagle Scouts are holding the Puerto Princesa Council banner during the Opening Program of 2nd One Regional Scout Jamborette held on December 2, 2012 in Mt. Makiling, Los Banos, Laguna. (Inset) Palawan scouts participate in one of the challenges of the Camp.

EditorialThe Voice • June - December 2012 • Page 2

Kezia Charity E. RoseroEditor-in-chief

Hannah Kim G. LimAssociate Editor

Ma. Patricia O. De CastroManaging Editor

Jaycee Dela G. ChicaNews Editor

Joanna Via Patrize T. JaloconFeatures Editor

Christine M. LeoncioLiterary Editor

Guia Chelin B. De GuiaRanessa D. Jailani

Abbygail U. ValdeztamonCorrespondents

Era Grace G. AbdulhamidJohn Aron Perez

Cartoonist

Julius Ian Cyrus G. RegodosPhotojournalist

Anezza B. CaňaveralAustin B. TatelLayout Artists

Ma. Teresa C. GumbaAdviser

Elijah Daniel B. GeangaLogo Designer

K-12 Curriculum: Peoples’ perception When one goes out of his comfort zone, it is considered a change. That is how many describe K-12 basic curriculum- a burden. It is quite straining for others to think that from ten years additional 2 years will be added to their basic education. However, the Deped says public acceptance of the program is growing. It says there has been wider understanding of the program since nationwide consultations started more than a year ago.

T o t h o s e w h o

abusively use internet, they should watch out because the Cybercrime Prevention Law is now implemented. Anti-Cybercrime Act was enacted by Congress to address legitimate concerns about criminal behavior on the internet and the effects of abusive behavior. On September 12, 2012, President Benigno Simeon Aquino III signed the Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. It was then

It is said that intelligence is the ability to adapt to change. Yes, change is the most difficult thing to adapt for it pressures one’s wellbeing. Change is uncomfortable or maybe a heart grown depending on where one views it. This year LSVMS undergoes many changes: K-12 implementation, administration organization, introduction of new policies, and the LASSO supervision. All these things mean one thing ’ the need to face whatever these changes may bring.

It is great to hear that one day LSVMS will be on top of excellence in Palawan. However, this dream in order to become true is coupled with hard work on the part of LSVMS community and the full support of RTNMC and CBNC. One or two persons alone could not possibly attain excellence in education. In addition, everyone, hand in hand, should consistently cooperate and face these changes to realize the ultimate goal.

However, anyone who effects change should also understand that change has an adjustment period depending on the individual. To those who could hardly let go of what they used to practice, change has a scratching effect.

Change pushes one person to do his best in all his undertakings. In school, it must drive the students to study hard; the teachers to do their best for the learners; and the administration to support the intellectual needs of the school community.

LSVMS undergoes change for academic excellence. If together the community willingly embraces this, that goal will surely be a reality.

“You’ll see that people’s perception about K-12 is changing. The issue is acceptability and understanding, and it appears that more people now believe that it can be done,” Assistant Education Secretary Jesus Mateo said when he was interviewed by Inquirer. “More people now understand and more people now accept,” Mateo said. “Of course, understanding is different from acceptance,” he added. A key education reform of

released on October 3, 2012

which surprised the online Filipino community.

This law that aims to fight online pornography, hacking, identity theft and spamming following local government agencies’ complaints over the lack of legal defense to combat cybercrime. This act focuses on giving preventions, investigations and imposition of penalties for those law breakers. Proper use of our Right to Freedom of Speech is also its primary concern, adding the Cybersex and Child Pornography.

However, despite its benefits to the netizens, there are folks who are not in favor of this law. LSVMS students express their thoughts about this law. April Joy Llabores, a fourth year student,

finds this law unjust because it even prohibits anyone to comment, like or even share something they have found interesting on the net. However, Julius Barrameda also a fourth year student, considers this law favorable for the people who are often bullied on social networks. “ I’m very thankful this act will be finally implemented,” he said. “This law will protect us from exploitation and most especially from pornography, “Jaime Ventayen, a third year student, said. First year students, Charlyn Padilla and Cherry May Lucero expressed their simple yet straight remark: “We are for this law. If this will be strictly implemented, bullying will then be out of internet’s c o n t e n t . ” M e a n w h i l e , Austin Tatel, a

Facing changes for excellence

The ChatterboxBY CLEO VIL J. ENANORIAAND EISTEN ELLA D. RACHO

the Aquino administration, K-12 is designed to develop highly qualified, employable high school graduates by adding two years of specialization, designated as senior high school, to the current 10-year basic education cycle. In senior high, students can choose from various fields of specialization, including technical-vocational skills, agriculture, music and the arts, and sports. A year will also be added to the present six-year elementary school (inquirer.net).

The Voice has made a survey if the parents, teachers and students of LSVMS have already understood and accepted the K-12 Basic Education Curriculum. “I was surprised because it causes

additional budget, but it’s nice knowing that my children will learn

and achieve more.” Mr. Rogel Alcantara, teacher/father.

Vox Populi Students speak: Anti-Cybercrime LawBY JOANNA VIA PATRIZE T. JALOCON third year student, said that

he is indecisive to favor this law because it will limit him as a student to access the sites where he can download materials for his projects.

This law which has been implemented by many countries in the world still leaves many questions in the minds of Filipino people because there are rules that are not yet explained by the government. However, people should realize that whatever act or law may not hinder anyone to abuse his right. Many individuals do not know how to properly practice their freedom of speech and expression. Hence, there is this law that will rescue those who are exploited on the cyber space.

Anyone will feel bad if he has labored on something but be claimed by someone as his own. Copying other’s work without citing the source and author is plagiarism. When someone gets other’s idea without permission, it is considered stealing - a crime. People may only

focus on the politicians of our country who have been involved in this issue, but there are many individuals especially in school who can also be guilty of this misdeed from many causes.

With a lot of information from internet, it is so easy for a pressured student to type on the browser the key word of information he needs for his assignments. In order to finish a

heap of homework, a student may just copy and paste the idea he has researched and then claim it as his own.

Laziness is the factor why other students commit plagiarism. A student who wishes for an excellent grade but does not like to work hard often resorts to plagiarism. When his teacher fails to detect his plagiarized work, this student will

r e p e a t e d l y do the same violation.

S c h o o l a u t h o r i t i e s should turn in to the causes of this misdemeanor so that LSVMS will be honored to produce student leaders who do not need to plagiarize to express themselves.

“It’s hard because it’s expensive, students have produce their own modules, but the lessons are not

that difficult.”Emmanuel Reyes, a Grade 7

Quartz student

Bull’s Eye!BY MA. PATRICIA O. DE CASTROThe plague of Plagiarism

The V

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De La Salle Zobel President introduces tech use

NewsThe Voice • June - December 2012 • Page 3

LSVMS hosts 4th Councilwide Advancement Camp

F o r t h e first time, L e o n i d e s S. Virata Memorial School (LSVMS) hosted the 4th Southern Palawan Councilwide Advancement Camp sponsored by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines Palawan- Puerto Princesa Council on August 23-26, 2012 which was attended by four hundred twenty- one and fifty- nine scouts and adult leaders of different schools from the 2nd district of Palawan.

“LSVMS Eagle Scouts helped me set-up the venues and facilities and through the efforts of our

BY JAYCEE G. DELA CHICASchool Principal, Mrs. Noeme G. Benetua and SAO Coordinator Mrs. Nancy V. Sta. Ana, we were fortunate enough to have the support of RTNMC and CBNC Mr. Maravilla said. he added.

The opening ceremony held at RTN Gymnasium was attended Hon. Ernesto Llacuna, BSP Coordinator Dr. Cyril Serador, Miss Ivy Marie Bayog, Dr. Eva D. Orpilla, Mrs. Nancy V. Sta. Ana and Miss Benetua.

Different activities such as Scout Ideals and Orienteering were held during day time to develop the participants’ knowledge about the real meaning of scouting while in the evening participants showcased their talents through cultural presentations and intermission

numbers. On the third night was the

Search for Mr. BSP 2012 where LSVMS contestants, Kevin Viacrusis and Ronit Jay Sapar won the pageant.

Scout Master Maravilla said that although the preparation itself was mind-blowing, it was very fulfilling to know that the bad weather failed to dampen the spirit of boy scouts.

All scouts were toured to Palayan sa Minahan, Palaisdaan sa Minahan where the scouts participated in a tree planting activity.

Certificates and special recognition were awarded to participating schools during the closing ceremony followed by the breaking of camps.

The President and High School Principal of De La Salle Santiago Zobel School, Br. Dennis M. Magbanua FSC conducted separate sessions with the teachers and selected high school students on Technology Enabled Classroom by demonstrating the use of the different features and applications of high-end gadgets like Ipad3 and Iphone 4s at the school’s Audio Visual Room on September 6, 2012.

Br. Dennis who was invited by the new LSVMS La Sallian Schools Supervision Office (LASSO) Supervisor Agnes C. Alonsozana, stressed that the use of technology like computer and multimedia creates new experiences and opportunities in teaching and learning.

Also invited by Mrs. Alonsozana was Br. Alexander Diaz FSC, De La Salle Philippines Vocation Promoter who likewise conducted a session with the student leaders on the Life of the Founder, St. John Baptist De La Salle and De La Salle schools all over the world, especially in the East Asia District.

BY GUIA CHELIN B. DE GUIA

Br. Dennis Magbanua, FSC, during his visit and talk with the teachers in LSVMS.

In addition, Sadongdong said it is an opportunity for the parents to be a part of the realization of the schools’ objective to use technology in aid of instruction as mentioned by the School Principal during the officers’ meeting last August 14, 2012.

The PTA on November 20, 2012 donated P33,880.00 to the school to buy two units of 32” LED TV for classroom use.

The school also received a P60,000.00 donation from the previous PTA Officers headed by Mrs. Nancy C. Cantoy for the purchase of LED TV and Projector on June 23, 2012.

The newly-elected Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Officers for school year 2012 -2013 together with all the parents present took an oath last September 1, 2012 during the Second General Assembly held at the RTN Gymnasium with the School Principal, Mrs. Noeme G. Benetua, as the inducting officer.

President, Mr.Nelson Sadongdong, Vice President for High School, Mrs. Baby Ann Rioveros, Vice President for Grade School, Rev. Sandy Dizon, Secretary, Mrs. Ma. Teresa Gumba, Auditor (parent), Mrs, Maribeth De Castro, Auditor (teacher), Mrs.

PTA Officials take oath BY ANNE MARIE G. LIMA

Vilma J. Enanoria, Treasurer, Mrs. Wilma S. Palay and PRO’s for their respective areas: Mrs. Betty Luchana, Mrs. Nenita Prado, Mrs. Alma Ventayen, Mrs. NusraAcob and Mrs. Rose Sapar won in an election held June 23, 2012 at the school’s Audio Visual Room.

In his speech, Sadongdong enumerated the PTA’s targets for school year 2012-2013 which include the formulation of the constitution and by laws, seminars for parents, book donation for each class to enhance the reading corner, fund raising to provide instructional materials for the school, and the celebration of family day.

The solid group of PTA. General PTA Officers meet on November 23 to talk about school projects.

Above picture:

Dr. Cyril Serrador,

Boy Scout Supervisor

and City Division

Supervisor with Mr. Jay Maravilla.

Below picture: (from right to left)

Ronit Sapar and John Emmer Gamo

parade during the opening of thje

camp on August 23- 26, 2012

In response to DepEd Oder No. 40, s. 2012 also known as DepEd Child Protection Policy”, the school has recently created a committee that will initiate the programs and organize activities for the protection of children from any kind of abuse, violence and bullying.

The committee will also ensure every right of the children and give parents necessary advice from experts when it comes in guiding their children and will give appropriate measures to address the bullying and report it to the higher committee.

The School’s Child Protection Committee is composed of the Principal Mrs. Noeme G. Benetua, as the Chairperson, Guidance Counselor in-charge Mrs. Gerlyn G. Ocaya as the Vice-Chairperson, PTA President Mr. Nelson B. Sadongdong as parent representative, PTA Vice President for the Grade School Rev. Sandy Dizon as Community/Barangay Representative, Faculty, Staff, and Employee Association (FASEA) President Mrs. Nancy V. Sta. Ana, as teacher representative, Student Affairs Council President Joanna Patrize T. Jalocon as student representative and Discipline and Formation Officer Mr. Jay M.

LSVMS creates child protection committee

Javier shared with the teachers Effective Teaching Strategies and Cooperative Learning Activities last July 14, 2012 where teachers from Indigenous Learning System, Gawad Kalinga and staff from Rio Tuba Nickel Foundation Inc. were invited to attend.

LASSO Supervisor and Chair of the Academic Coordinators Grade School Department of La Salle Green Hills Mr. Alex Borbon gave a session on Effective Closure Techniques and shared with the school multimedia resources for educational purposes last November 29, 2012.

These in service trainings are some of the actions taken by the school to answer the LASSO recommendations on the areas of personnel and curriculum.

LSVMS Faculty and Staff attend in-service trainings

The faculty and staff attended regular in-service trainings conducted by LASSO Supervisors and administrators from La Salle Green Hills held last June, July, September, and November 2012 at the Audio Visual Center.

New LSVMS La Sallian Schools Supervision Office (LASSO) Supervisor and La Salle Green Hills Assistant Principal Mrs. Agnes C. Alonsozana conducted sessions with the teachers on Handling Difficult Clients last June 9, 2012, Effective Test Construction last September 6, and Plenary Session on Classroom Observations last November 29, 2012.

LASSO Supervisor and La Salle Green Hills Grade School Principal Mr. Ramelle

BY MA. PATRICIA O. DE CASTROAND JAYCEE G. DELA CHICA

Maravilla as member. “ Membersof the committee

must dissimenate the information regarding this matter for the students or childen to be aware of. It does not limit only to the children but also the parents and teachers. We may not be aware that there are also instances that teachers are bullied by the parents unconsciously,” Ma’am Gerlyn stated.

This DepEd was was made with the help of civil society groups, teachers' groups, private and public school representatives, international agencies, and child protection advocates.

BY CHRISTINE M. LEONCIO

FeatureThe Voice • June - December 2012 • Page 4

Palayan at palaisdaan sa minahanRTNFI Employees trying out fishing in one of the ponds during their tour in the mining site’s rehabilitated area.

BY KENNETH G. TANTOCO

Proving that mined out areas can still

beuseful in farming, Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC) and Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC) through the effort of Dr. Bibiano Ranes put up an agro-forestry and aquaculture projects within the mined site area.

Through this project, Palayan and Palaisdaan sa Minahan, 238 hectares of mined-out areas had already been rehabilitated; thus, the two companies were conferred a special award during the 2011 Annual Mine Safety and Environment Conference for Best Mine Rehabilitation Strategy.

Dr. BibianoRanes, PhD in Forestry from the University of the Philippines and a resident expert of Rio Tuba on forest and farmland ecosystems is focused to continuously reforest areas in order to improve the natural habitat and upgrade water quality of streams, absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and lay the foundation for an agricultural-based local economy post mining.

In addition, he has designed a protocol

Credits to the following photographers: (clockwise) Minda Monica Ponce-Rodriguez, Dr. Bibiano Ranes,, Rick Rocamora, and Abigail Pastera Abela.

where significant vegetative cover can be established within a 12 to 18-month period using species native to the area with high survival rates. This project has dramatically reduced the lag time for the mine rehabilitation, improving even the government mandate.

“As an academician, I have to rely on verifiable facts as a basis of our technical decisions,” Dr. Ranes said. “Because of the positive results we get from these projects, we have solid basis to conclude that the ideas of anti-mining organizations about RTNMC and CBNC are wrong,” he stressed. In this project he uses only the basic foundation of science: finding a proof first before making conclusion.

Dr. Ranes said there are many strategies being put together to achieve several ends in managing the mining rehabilitation works at GP-4 where these projects are located.

First thing considered is answering the need to preserve biodiversity resources within the area affected by mining activities. “We start this thing up by deciding on the priority use of native species as planting materials for mining rehabilitation purposes,” he said. ”Then, there is the need to fast track the development of vegetative cover of the mined-out area, “ he added.

The pictures (below) show the gradual improvement of the

rehabilitated mined site.

Materials used for planting are Very Large Planting Materials (VLPMs) so that a significant forest cover will be developed in the shortest time possible. “Our experience at GP-4 has shown that in a period of just 24 months after planting activities, we observed and documented about 100 species of wildlife representing invertebrates, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals that returned to the area”, Dr. Ranes remarked.

Dr. Ranes also explained that rice farming, vegetable growing and other food production components are aimed at making maximum use of mined-out areas for food productivity. In addition, these farm products such as vegetables, rice and other that are produced at the mining rehabilitation project site at GP-4 are mainly for research and not for commercial purposes.

T h r o u g h patience, hard effort, perseverance and meticulous endeavors, both RTNMC and CBNC have shown that mined-out areas can still have productive uses in terms of food productivity and biodiversity conservation.

High school life has the sweetest memories many individuals want to remember. The alumni usually come back to their alma mater, meet their old classmates and recall the momentous events they shared together. However, LSVMS alumni’s return is coupled with their mission: to reach out and share something to the students of their Alma Mater.

This year’s set of Alumni Association

officers initiated projects in order to meet their goal to reach out and to establish closer relationship with the school. One of their projects, Libreng Gupit Para sa Mga Bulilit which was held in series, benefited 267 LSVMS students. Mrs. Wilma Sadongdong-Palay, the LSVMSAA president said the association aims to inculcate good grooming to students and for the latter to develop the value of obedience to school’s rules.

This haircut program spent P5,000 to P7,000 for

LSVMSAA: Giving back to the Alma Materevery session. Besides the association’s fund, other individuals and alumni batches donated amount to make this project possible. Some alumni like Mr. Robert Mendova and Mr. Javier Robles offered their free service during the haircut sessions held on September 2 and 30.

“Like other Alumni members, LSVMS has been our molder, builder and maker; we owe it to our Alma Mater whoever we are now. The school has mentally and spiritually molded us; thus, now is the payback time.”

Mrs. Wilma Sadongdong-Palay said. “We can pay back by sharing our capabilities and knowledge even in simple ways to our Alma Mater, to our kababayan and to the whole community of Rio Tuba as well,” she added. “I am very thankful to everyone especially to the alumni for supporting me in this endeavor,” she concluded.

In association with RTNFI Hospital, the group also conducted a blood-letting activity on October 20. “There is joy if you know that you are able to save one life through

your blood donation,” said Hyacinth Gumba, RTNFI Hospital nurse. Palay also said the organization also aims to donate books to the school’s library before this year ends.

In high school, there is joy if there is laughter shared with classmates. However, when one has become an alumnus, there is more happiness if there is service and commitment shared to others especially to one’s Alma Mater.

BY JOHN ARON PEREZ

Feature/ LiteraryThe Voice • June - December 2012 • Page 5

““ . . . through hard work, positive mental attitude, and faith we can achieve our vision

of a globally competitive community . . . at the

service of others .”

© 2012 LSVMS The Voice Publication. All Rights Reserved

A Big Dream. Behind a Mother’s Smile

A child growing up without a mom is like a blind groping in the dark. A mother that serves as light of a home guides every member of the family to a definite direction. In school, the principal takes the role of a mother. The third principal since the school has been privatized, Mrs. Noeme G. Benetua, takes the challenge to serve as the guiding force of the school.

A very simple woman, she wears no lipstick, yet, the smile she wears every time she greets everyone, fills the air with great positive vibes.That is the simplest way one can describe the new school principal. A woman with a strong faith and determination, she has the ultimate goal to make LSVMS the best school in Palawan.

“Our indicators would be accreditations, results of our National Achievement Tests, and the quality of graduates we produce. If we satisfy the standards of LASSO and the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), if we rank first in the National Achievement Test, and if our graduates perform well in colleges and universities, then we can proudly claim that we are the best school in Palawan.”

“Miss B” as she is fondly called hails from Silay City, Negros Occidental. Just like other children, she enjoyed her childhood playing with other kids. There was already a manifestation of having the heart of a teacher even in her young age.

“I would gather and invite kids my age, played with them by acting as their teacher most of the time.”

Hence, she took up Bachelor of Science in Education Major in English at the University of St. La Salle (USLS) in Bacolod City and graduated Cum Laude in 1989. After graduation, she taught at USLS Integrated School where she spent 17 years teaching English and doing supervisory assignments. An Outstanding Teacher Awardee, she has proven herself as an effective educator not only in the Philippines but also in Japan and in the United States of America.

It is not easy to be away from home, but Miss B accepted the challenge to head the school for some reasons.

“I accepted the offer because of Miss Gancia who was my Reading Coordinator back when I started teaching at USLS. Another reason was LASSO Superintendent Dr. John T. Cabalo, my colleague and friend, who really went out of his way to look for me and convinced me to say yes to LSVMS. The last reason was the realization that this was one great opportunity and privilege to continue the Lasallian teaching ministry of making an impact on the lives of others.”

True to her commitment to Lasallian education, she is dedicated to improve the instruction of the school based on LASSO recommendations. She agrees with Dr. Harry K. Wong, author of the best selling book, The First Days of School, who stated that teacher expertise is the single most important factor in determining student achievement.

“We must invest in our teachers. We must have a functional Faculty Development Program that provides all our Faculty and Staff the opportunity to continuously grow and become effective and successful educators.”

She makes sure that there is always a plan, a program and close coordination and supervision of instruction through the help of the academic team.

“I am pleased with our accomplishments in the first half of the school year. Highlights of these include the attendance of majority of our teachers to various local and national conferences, seminars and workshops; awards and achievements of our pupils/students in local and regional contests in academics, sports, and scouting; the active involvement of the parents and alumni; the untiring support of the Board of Trustees; and the assistance provided by LASSO especially our LASSO Supervisor Mrs. Agnes C. Alonsozana.”

Miss B feels rewarded by the warm welcome given to her by the community. She is touched by everyone’s kindness, respect, thoughtfulness, and smile.

LSVMS has found a new leader who is determined and confident that “through hard work, positive mental attitude, and faith we can achieve our vision of a globally competitive community that is founded on the genuine Lasallian virtues at the service of others.”

BY HANNAH KIM G. LIM

I want this I want that

I want everything that you have

What contentment? I have none

My obsession will not be gone

With all the things that I want.

FetishBy Kezia Charity E. Rosero LIFE

Poems By Hershey Grace B. Hadjerel

Living is the most wonderful gift that God had given to us.It's the thing that we should

treasure the most.For it doesn't have second

chance.Every man has their own

different lives.There are poor, middle class

and rich.But, it doesn’t matter where we

belong,The important is, what, why and to whom do we live for.

Image of a friendBy Austin B. Tatel

A friend is always there to guide and to love you.A friend is always there to wipe tears and share happiness. A friend is someone we treasure and we need to take care

to last long.A friend is always there to listen and to understand all your

sorrows.A friend is the one that knows all your secrets and your

stories.A friend shares smile and expresses happiness in your

moment in life.A friend is someone who believes in you and having many

friends is truly a wonderful part of life.

I could walk close to you,Walk far away from you.I could run only with you,And run without you.I could climb with you,And climb faster to leave you.I can swim to save you,And swim to hide from you. Thank you my feet, I can be with YouAnd be far away from You.

The Feet By Christine M. Leoncio

Literary

“

The Voice • June - December 2012 • Page 6

Miniminang PamanaBY MA. LOURDES M. DELA VEGA

This story won second place in the recetly concluded Faces of Mining: A Short Story - Writing Competition sponsored by Chamber of MInes of the Philippines.

A total of 105 entries received from all over the country, out of which the judges shortlisted 27 entries, Mrs. Hazel Abela, former LSVMS teacher and Ma. Lourdes Dela Vega won first and second places respectively.

Ma. Lourdes M. Dela Vega is an alumnae of LSVMS and now serving as a nurse in RTNFI Hospital.

The daughter of LSVMS teacher, Mrs. Efleda P. Mabella, Malou graduated from University of St. La Salle as RTNMC scholar.

She said she wrote this story to express her gratitude to Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Company that has been a great part of what she is now

A Laughing PoemBy Christine M. Leoncio

No one is laughing,I started to laugh.You followed suit

and laugh.Now we are laughing,

And until forever, together we’ll be laughing.

SolitudeBy Jaycee G. Dela Chica

A cell submerged in blue water,Happiness never fades.A breath taking moment,You just can’t neglect,The simple tranquilityfill our hearts.

A Gift By John Aron Perez

This season we celebrate,The birth of a special

person, Jesus Christ With our

faith,He saved us in every bad

situation.

The gift for the birthday of Christ,

No need to be so expensive,

Because the greatest gift for Christ,

is by giving than to receive.

Ma’am, nag-aaral po ako kasi gusto kong umakyat sa stage at sabitan ng medal.’

Ito ang mga salitang isinagot sa akin ni Jonalyn nang tanungin ko siya kung ano ba ang kahalagahan ng pag-aaral para sa kaniya. Nasa ikalawang baitang pa lamang siya sa elementarya. Isa siya sa sampu kong estudyante. Napangiti ako, nakikita ko ang sarili ko kay Jonalyn --- halos labing-walong taon na ang nakararaan’

"Tay, bakit po kailangan natin lumipat sa Rio Tuba? Malayo po bay un tay? Paano po yan tay, wala akong kaibigan doon, maiiwan ko ang mga kaibigan ko dito.’ Halos hindi masagot ni tatay ang marami kong katanungan. Abala siya sa pagliligpit ng aming mga gamit. Tubong Rizal, Palawan ang aking mga magulang. Sa Rizal na ako ipinanganak, natutong mag-lakad, at dun na rin unang nag-aral. Nasa Rizal noon ang aking mga pinsan, kaklase at mga kaibigan ’ malungkot ako na kailangan naming lumipat ng tirahan. ’Anak, mas maganda ang trabaho sa Rio Tuba, mas malaki ang tyansa na mapag-aral ko kayo hanggang kolehiyo’ mahirap ang buhay dito, depende sa panahon ang kinikita ng Tatay, doon, mas mabibigyan ko kayo ng magandang kinabukasan.’ Walong taon pa lamang ako noon. Ang hilig ko lang ay maglaro sa buhanginan at magtampisaw sa dagat --- hindi ko lubusang matarok, ano nga ba ang magandang kinabukasan?

Taong 1994, siyam na taong gulang ako noon, dumating kami sa Rio Tuba. Naku! Napakalalaki pala ng mga trak(truck) dito. Magmamaneho daw ng ganun si tatay. Di ko pa rin lubusang maintindihan noon, basta sa RTN’ sa RTN daw magtatrabaho si tatay. Pagbukas ng klase noong Hunyo 1994, nagsimula na rin akong mag-aral sa aking bagong eskwelahan ’ ang Leonides S. Virata Memorial School. Ang ganda pala ng eskwelahan nila dito ’ maraming mga libro sa library, may mga computers pa, tuturuan daw kaming gumamit ng computer. Sabik na sabik ako noon, doon pa lang ako unang makakahawak ng computer. Maayos din an gaming mga upuan at pisara, kumpleto kami sa mga libro ’ ganado talaga akong mag-aral. Tuwing ikinukwento ko kay nanay ang aking mga karanasan sa mga unang linggo ng klase, ang lagi niya lang tugon ’ ’mahal tayo ng Diyos anak, dinala niya tayo dito, magpasalamat tayo sa RTN, napakabait ng kumpanya, maraming tulad natin ang natutulungan. Habang tumatagal, unti-unti ko na ring naiintindihan at buong pusong niyayakap ang aming bagong mundo. Mining Company pala ang RTN ’ Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation. Minimina daw ang mga nickel na nasa ilalim ng lupa na siya naman binibili ng bansang Japan. Naku, kaya pala ang laki ng minamanehong trak ni tatay. Lagi kong iniisip noon ’ ang yaman-yaman ng RTN. Pinapatira nila kami ng libre sa mga bahay, may kuryente at tubig na rin, maganda ang kanilang eskwelahan, libre ang gamot at pagpapaospital pag kami’y nagkasakit, at may children’s park pa malapit sa aming bahay. ’Nay, ang yaman talaga ng RTN no.’ Lagi lang sinasabi ng nanay, ’anak, napakabait ng kumpanya.’

Minsan, kapag nakikinig sina tatay at nanay ng radio, may mga iilang pagtuligsa kaming naririnig --- at ang paksa ay ang industriya ng pagmimina. Nakakasira daw ng kalikasan, kabuhayan at maging ng kalusugan ang pagmimina. Ngunit hindi ako naniniwala,

laging pinapaliwanag sa akin ng tatay na isang responsableng kumpanya ang RTN. Ilang taon na ring tumatakbo ang kumpanya, pero nung dumating kami dito ay maganda ang lugar, malulusog at masasaya ang mga tao ’ hindi naman sila nasira ng pagmimina. Isa pa, gaya nga ng sabi ni nanay, napakabait ng kumpanya, sa aking palagay, hindi sila gagawa ng bagay na makakasira sa sinuman. Hanggang isang araw, nagdaos ang aming paaralan ng tree planting activity. Nilibot kami sa mine site, napakaraming trak ang aking nakita, napapaisip tuloy ako kung alin sa mga iyon ang minamaneho ng tatay. Binaba kami sa mined out area, dun daw namin itatanim ng aking mga kaklase ang mga puno. Inihanda na iyon ng kumpanya, may Nursery pala na para sa mga halaman. Buong pag-iingat kong tinakpan ng lupa ang ugat ng aking mga itinanim, nilagyan pa iyon ng mga pangalan, sinabayan ko iyon ng tahimik na panalangin para sa mabilis na paglaki at pagyabong ng mga puno, mga puno na itinanim ng aming mga munting kamay ’ para sa mininang kalikasan.

Ngayon, naiintindihan ko na may mga napuputol na puno sa pagtakbo ng minahan. Pagmiminang nagbibigay sa amin ng napakaraming biyaya ’ mga biyayang dito lang namin natikman. Bilang ganti, kaming mga umuusbong dahil sa pagmimina ay maraming magagawa upang ibalik sa inang kalikasan ang pasasalamat, at ang pagtatanim ng puno ay isa lamang doon. Itinatapon ko ang mga basura sa tamang lalagyan, tinitipid ko rin ang aking lapis at papel, sabi ni nanay, galing din daw ang mga iyon sa mga puno. Tumutulong din ako sa pagtatanim ng mga bulaklak sa bahay at paaralan. Pinagsasabihan ko ang mga batang naninirador at nangunguha ng pugad ng mga munting ibon na itigil na ang mga ganong gawain. Aba, marami pala akong magagawa.

Mabilis dumaan ang mga araw. Lumalaki na ang aking kapatid. Nagkaroon ako ng maraming kaibigan. Masaya kaming nagtatampisaw sa ulan, umaakyat ng bayabas, nanunungkit ng manga at kumakain ng sarisas. Tuwing walang pasok, nakikipaghabulan kami sa mga nagtatalunang tipaklong at naliliparang mga tutubi. Minsan, paramihan kami ng mga nakikitang talangka na lumalabas sa kanilang mga butas sa kanal. Naging masaya ang aking kabataan ’ lahat ito ay naranasan ko sa Rio Tuba. Napakayaman ng kalikasan sa Rio Tuba ’ sa Rio Tuba, na may kumpanyang nagmimina.

Lumaki akong kuntento sa tahimik at simpleng buhay. Tuwing may pagkakataon, dumadalaw kami sa Rizal, naroon ang aking mga lolo’t lola. Namimiss ko sila kung nasa malayo kami, pero lagi kong iniisip na lahat ng ito ay para rin sa kanila. Dito sa rio Tuba, sapat ang sweldo ni tatay, nakakapagpadala pa siya kina lolo paminsan-minsan. Nabibigay niya ang aming mga pangangailangan at higit sa lahat, maayos kaming nakakapag-aral ng aking kapatid. Minsan kapag may okasyon, dinadala kami ni tatay sa Ibelnan ’ ilog yon sa bundok. Paborito kong lugar ang Ibelnan, may mga cottages at may padulasan pa. Ipinagmamalaki ko ang Ibelnan dahil malapit iyon sa minesite ’ sinong nagsabing sinisira ng RTN ang bundok? Labing-anim na taong gulang na ako, pitong taon na kaming residente ng Rio Tuba, at hanggang ngayon, napakasarap pa ring maligo sa tubig ng Ibelnan.

Napakabilis ng panahon ’ nalaman ko na lang na isa pala ako sa mabibigyan ng scholarship ng kumpanya para sa pag-aaral ng kolehiyo. Ako na yata ang pinakamaswerteng tao sa mundo. Tuwang-tuwa ang tatay ’ nagsisimila nang magbunga ang kanyang mga pagtitiyaga at sakripisyo. Malapit na akong tumungtong ng kolehiyo. Papalapit na noon ang high school graduation, sigurado na kaya ako sa napili kong kurso para sa kolehiyo?

Sa araw ng aking pagtatapos, kinausap ako ni tatay. ’Anak, binabati kita sa iyong tagumpay. Alam mo, hinahalintulad kita sa mga nickel na aming minimina. Ang nickel, nasa ilalim ng lupa, di mo matatanaw --- kailangan mong hukayin, linangin at pangalagaan upang maging kapaki-pakinabang. Yung mga nickel ang susi na nagbibigay sa atin ng pag-unlad, ng tagumpay. Parang ikaw, nagtutulungan kami ng nanay para maiahon kayo ng maayos. Nandito kaming susubaybay upang malinang ang inyong mga talento at kakayahan. Inaalagaan namin kayo dahil mahalaga kayo sa amin. Katulad ng nickel, nawa’y maging susi ka para sa tagumpay at pag-unlad ng ating bayan. Kayong mga kabataan ang tagapagmana ng mga magagandang asal, huwag mo sana iyong kalimutan at maipamana mo rin sa mga susunod pang henerasyon. Nickel ang naging swerte natin, malaki ang naitulong nito sa atin. Anak, maging nickel ka nawa para sa iba’. Manatili kang nakaapak sa lupa nguni’t maging isang napakhalagang bagay na makakatulong, lalo na sa mga lubos na nangangailangan. ’ Tama si tatay. Tama ang desisyon ko. Kukuha ako ng kursong Edukasyon --- gusto kong maging teacher. Magmimina ako ng mga estudyante. Huhubugin ko sila at lilinangin upang maging kapakipakinabang at maging tuwid na pag-asa ng ating bayan.

"Ma'am, ang ganda-ganda po ng ngiti nyo."

Nagulat na lang ako sa tawag na iyon ni Jonalyn. Masarap balik-balikan ang kahapon. Labing-walong taon na mula ng una akong tumapak sa mapulang lupa ’ ang lupa na nagdala sa akin sa kinalalagyan ko ngayon. Dalawampu’t pitong taong gulang na ako. Isang guro ng mga katutubong Palaw’an sa ilalim ng Indegeneous Learning System, naglilingkod para sa kumpanyang naging daan ng katuparan ng aking mga pangarap. Pinili ko ang ganitong gawain --- mas kailangan nila ako. Kailangan kong ipaliwanag at ipakita sa kanila na narito ang kumpanya upang tumulong na mas maisaayos ang kanilaang buhay, ang kanilang kinabukasan. Hindi kami nandito upang sirain o baguhin ang kung ano man ang mayroon sila ngayon.

Salamat sa RTNMC. Salamat sa pamana ng mina. Dahil sa pagmimina, ako’y naging guro. Sa tulong ng pagmimina, marami akong maipapamana sa mga susunod na henerasyon --- ang henerasyon na maaaring sa hinaharap ay silang magmimina’ magmimina at magpapamana. Nais kong ipabaon sa kanila ang tuwid at malawak na kaisipan, mapagpakumbabang kalooban at responsableng katauhan. Umuwi si Jonalyn na punong-puno ng pag-asa. Habang tinatanaw ko ang kanyang pagbaybay sa palayan, may kurot sa aking puso, kasama ang dasal na nawa’y katulad ko, dumating din ang araw para kay Jonalyn’ ang araw na malalaman nya ang tunay na kahulugan ng magandang kinabukasan.

NewsThe Voice • June - December 2012 • Page 7

To intensify the journalism skills of the school paper staff, series of monthly trainings and workshops has been conducted by the student publication moderator since July. Because of the big responsibility to be accurate with facts, these young journalists are trained how

to properly plan and gather facts before they write. The staff is also

taught t o

The Voice Staff writing skills intensified BY ERA GRACE G. ABDULHAMID

establish the right angle of the story and be able to put the information they have into informative writing. The Student Publication invited two alumni who became a part of the school paper during their high school years. Mr. Rizaldy Bustamante who was also a part of his college newspaper, gave some tips about writing last September while Mr. Elijah shared his knowledge about school paper lay out using Adobe InDesign CS5, Illustrator and Photoshop on November 8-9.

Alumni support Campus Journalism. Ma’am Tess G. invites Mr. Rizaldy Bustamante, former associate editor of the voice (second from right) and Mr. Elijah Daniel Genaga, former Lay-out artist (second from left)to share their skills to the staff.

Whale shark spotted BY JAYCEE G. DELA CHICA

Ces Drilon visits Rio TubaBY KATE RAVEN C. VILLEGASAND MARY VALERIE G. SABANDO

Touring Drilon. ABS- CBN news anchor Miss Ces Drilon (second from right) with Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) President Mr. Gerard Brimo (second from left) are toured around LSVMS campus by Academic Assistant Principal Dr. Eva D. Orpilla, High School Assistant Principal Mrs. Remedios Salanga, Elementary Assistant Principal Mrs. Merlita C. Edica and Discipline and Formation Officer Mr. Jay M. Maravilla.

The Second Quarterly Lasallian Schools Supervision Office (LASSO) School Board of Trustees Meeting was held at De La Salle University, Manila on October 25, 2012.

Present during the meeting were Board of Trustees Engr. Arturo T. Manto and Engr. Jose S. Saret, Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) Legal Manager Atty. Ryan Rene C. Jornada who acted as the Secretary of the Meeting, RTNFI Executive Director Mr. Renato G. Cinco, LASSO Superintendent Sr. Teresita C. Octavio , LASSO Supervisor

LSVMS Board of Trustees meets quarterly Mrs. Agnes C. Alonsozana and

LSVMS Principal Mrs. Noeme G. Benetua.

The agenda included the Operations’ Report where the Principal and the Supervisor presented their reports to the board.

LSVMS Principal Mrs. Benetua reported on the school’s accomplishments in the following areas: Administration and Faculty, Student and Curriculum, Parents and Alumni, Spiritual and Formation, and Physical Facilities and Equipment.

LASSO Supervisor Mrs. Alonsozana discussed the Supervisory Plan for School Year 2012-2013 in the following areas of supervision: Administration and Faculty, Curriculum Development, Physical Facilities and Equipment, and Finance.

The next LASSO School Board Meeting is scheduled on January 30, 2013.

The first quarterly LASSO School Board Meeting was held last July 27, 2013 at DLSU Manila while the third quarterly LASSO School Board Meeting is scheduled on January 30, 2013.

BY KEZIA CHARITY E. ROSERO

School Principal Noeme G. Benetua together with the Rio Tuba Nickel Foundation Inc (RTNFI) Executive Director Renato G. Cinco and Social Development and Management Program Supervisor

RTNFI education leaders attend 1st Educational SummitBY JAYCEE G. DELA CHICA

To promote reading among pupils/students as stipulated in DepEd Order 244, the school through the Library Media Center headed by Miss Mariser Lapore celebrated Book Week on November 19-23, 2012.

Kinder and primary pupils participated in the Character Book Parade where they dressed up like the characters of their favorite

Book Week celebration promotes love of reading

fairytales or books. Drop Everything and Read

(DEAR) project, a 15-20-minute activity devoted to reading a book, was also highlighted during this activity.

November was declared by DepEd as Reading Month to develop the love of reading among the students because it is an important portal to the world of learning.

BY ANEZZA CLAIRE B. CAÑAVERAL

A wounded and weak whale shark (Butanding), approximately 3.5 to 4 meters long, was seen last July 14 in the shoreline of Tagdalongon near the RTN coastway. The veterinarian from the Philippine Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) then immediately vaccinated the shark; PMC (Philippine Maritime Control) took the whale shark to deep water, released it, but later died. The shark was then transported to Amerille Island where it was immediately buried to avoid contaminating the residents. Mr. Mark Jay Manual who was on the site said young whale sharks are usually fed on small fishes and shrimps so, this was the possible reason this young sea creature came to the shore line of Tagdalongon; however, it was probably trapped that caused its wounds and eventually its death.

LSVMS Grandslams PICHE Quiz BeeBY ABBYGAIL U. VALDEZTAMON

The school represented by high school students from different levels has maintained its title as the champion of PICHE Quiz Bee for three consecutive years after winning another competition held

on September 17, 2012 at the RTN gymnasium.

LSVMS students who bested other contestants from seven schools of Southern Palawan were Hanna Kim Lim, Era Grace Abdulhamid, Kezia Charity Rosero, Jonas Alojan, Anne Marie Lima and Abbygail Valdeztamon.

“It was an honor to be chosen as one of the contestants for the PICHE Quiz Bee last year,” Jaycee Dela Chica said “ “Although I really had a hard time reading and reviewing my notes,” he added.

“For three consecutive years I’m so thankful that I have been chosen as one of the contestants

for the PICHE,” Hanna Kim Lim said. “ My first time was a tough one; I was so nervous then so, I studied hard for the contest” she

Hand in hand for quality education. Mrs. Noeme Benetua and Mr. Renato Cinco (third from left) pose with Division Superintendent OIC, Mr. Raul Marin, DepEd Secretary, Br. Armin Luistro, and Palawan Governor, Abraham Mitra, and other school heads after the Educational Summit last November 9.

ABS-CBN broadcast journalist Ces Oreña Drilon accompanied by Gerard H. Brimo, President of Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) and NAC Vice President Communications JB Baylon visited Rio Tuba together with four media personalities from different TV stations and broadsheet newspapers on July 27, 2012.

Engineer of Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC) Briccio Abela said that Mr. Brimo invited Ces Drilon together with Ellen Tordesillas of Malaya Broadsheet, Charmaine Deogracias of NHK,

Abigail Kwok and Bernard Testa of Active 5 to visit the rehabilitated Guitalunan Pit-4 of Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC), Tailings Storage Facility 1 of CBNC, Rio Tuba Nickel Foundation Inc. Hospital, and Leonides S. Virata

Memorial School.Ces Drilon and company also

visited the Indigenous People of Gawad Kalinga Village in south Bongkol-Bongkol where the residents presented a dance to welcome the group.

Sixty seven Grade Four pupils received their First Holy Communion in a Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Rev. Fr. Nito Bundac at the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Church last December 14, 2012.

The Celebration which was facilitated by the Campus Ministry through the Campus Ministry Coordinator Elfeda P. Mabella and Grade Four Advisers Kristine Claire M.

Malnegro, Lore Jen D. Tabulod, and Eric T. Reyes was well attended by the parents of the communicants.

To prepare the pupils to receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, a confession was scheduled at the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Church last December 13.

Other than the First Holy Communion, the Campus Ministry also organized and facilitated various activities as part of the Spiritual Formation Program of the school.

These activities included: Recollection with Eucharistic Celebration for all Classes in the Intermediate and Secondary levels, Sponsorship of the Anticipated Mass at the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Church every Saturday since July 2012, Reach out Activities to the different Gawad Kalinga Sites, Prayer Service / Holy Mass for the Faculty and Staff, In House Youth Camp sponsored by Youth for Christ (YFC) of Palawan together with Couple’s for Christ Representatives Mr. and Mrs. Beth De Castro Attended by Forty Seven High School Students last December 14- 16, 2012, High School Christmas Program with 300 Pupils and Twenty Teachers from Rio Tuba South Elementary School (RTSES) and Alfredo Gregorio Memorial Elementary School (AGMES) last December 19, 2012.

City on November 7-9.This Education Summit, the first

in the province and the region and a project of Ensuring Quality Instruction Program for Palawan (Equip) of the provincial government in alliance with the Department of Education was attended by Mayors, DepEd District Supervisors, Principals, School Administrators, and other stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

The first day started with the Opening of the Summit Exhibit by Gov. Abraham B, Mitra and Assistant Schools Division Supt. Raul Marin, message from the Regional Director

Dr. Sinforosa A. Guiñares and keynote message from Congressman Lone District of Aurora Province Hon. Juan Edgardo M. Angara.

On the second day, RTNFI Executive Director Mr. Cinco presented the basic education program of RTNFI which included the Gawad Kalinga (GK), Indigenous Learning System (ILS) and Leonides S. Virata Memorial School (LSVMS).

Highlights of the last day included the presentation of the Executive Director of Philippine Science High School System Dr. Josette T. Biyo, launching of the Mother Tongue Books, presentation of the workshop results, and the impression and response from Secretary of Education Br. Armin Luistro FSC.

BY JAYCEE G. DELA CHICAJanice Tupas attended the 2012 Palawan Educational Summit with the theme “Napapanahong Tugon sa Pagpapalakas ng Edukasyon sa Palawan” held at the Skylight Convention Center in Puerto Princesa

added. Each of the winners was

given a cash prize of 1,100 and a certificate of recognition.

Rev. Fr. Nito Bundac is giving the commun-ion to a Grade 4 pupil at the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Church last December 14, 2012.

Campus Ministry holds First Holy Communion

The Yellow Team bagged the championship title in this year’s Street Dance Competition, last September 19-21, 2012, at the RTN Oval. Blue Team, Red Team and Green Team won first, second and third runner up, respectively.

The Yellow Team, clad in their yellow Tinkerbelle-inspired costume trained impressed the crowd with their routine, new series of props and breathtaking stunts.

This team trained by Mr. Jay-ar Chiva completed their festive dancing with fire-breathing, a level 3 human tower, and flower formations; thus, making the group win special recognitions

Red Team

Yellow Team rules Street Dance TiltBY JOANNA VIA PATRIZE T. JALOCON

earned the title “Crowd Favorite” while the Blue Team, with their Avatar-inspired costume won the Best in Costume.

“We wanted to win the competition; of course, everyone want to, Anne Marie Lima said. “ I’m proud to say that we worked hard for the victory and the award of winning humbles us.”

“We give our deep gratitude to our trainer, Mr. Chiva and to God, who gave us strength to endure, another sophomore student said.

The Street Dance Competition, since it started, has been an annual Sportsfest staple. Nevertheless, the event continues to showcase the talents and spirit of our students and this year’s did not fail the anticipating crowd and proud parents.

The Blue Team maintained its status as the champion of Sportsfest for five consecutive years.

H e a d e d by the seniors, the Blue team was declared as the overall champion of the Sportsfest 2012 that was held last September 19-21, 2012 at the RTN Oval with the theme “Soaring High in Education through Sports.”

This year’s batch was able to keep the eminence of the team.

Though the members lost some of the contests, they still proved their dominance.

The seniors prepared very well for their “Avatar-like” concept for the street dance, they made use of various materials for their props and costumes.

When results were out, the team ranked 1st place following the Yellow team. The team’s school football girls, who made it to the championship, contributed much for the win of the team. Track and field events participated by elementary students also attributed for the victory of the Blue Team.

BY JAYCEE G. DELA CHICAAND HANNAH KIM G. LIM

Blue Team maintains championship LASSO Super Games:LSVMS asserts dominanceBY KEZIA CHARITY E. ROSERO

Frienship Game. LSVMS Socceroos Carl Escalante tries to steal the ball from St. Brother Benilde’s football players during LASSO Super Games on November 17, 2012 at De La Salle Zobel football field, Muntinlupa City.

Dance for victory. Rio Ian Perez of the Yellow Team blows fire while his teammates dance for the win during the Street Dance Competition, one of the highlights during the opening of Sportsfest on September 19, 2012 at the RTN Oval.

Playing badminton and volleyball was the main activity of LSVMS educators when they celebrated the World Teachers’ Day last October 5. They were out of the classroom in their sports attire and dominated the volleyball and badminton courts of RTNMC.

When asked why they choose to play instead of going out of town, here are their answers:

Ms. Tess G said teachers preferred to hold sports activity because it serves as a teacher. “There are many things a group or individual can learn from sport; it teaches the group to work as a team, she said. “It is the value of unity the teachers need this time; sports will help educators to have it,” she stressed.

“Teachers need to stretch and mingle with other people in the community.” Mr. Gildo Gujelde, a

LSVMS educators celebrate World Teachers’ Day through sportsBY JULIUS IAN G. REGODOS AND RALPH ZOUGA D. BALDOZA

badminton athlete, said. Mrs. Vilma Enanoria who also

loves sports, stressed the value of sports as a motivating factor for teachers. “Quality education can be achieved if teachers are well

Glydel Bartolome of Blue Team

mightily kicks the ball for

a sure score.

motivated to work; playing sports can greatly help,” she added.

World Teachers Day is celebrated to acknowledge the important role teachers play in providing quality education.

Teachers go to court. Miss Babyann Robles (left) hits a clear high and to the back of her opponent’s court. (right) With all her might, Mrs. Annie Gangoso serves for her team.

To foster fellowship, friendship and camaraderie among the badminton players of different companies in Rio Tuba, the Rio Tuba Couples Badminton Club hosted a tournament last November 9-25 participated in by Rio Tuba Nickel Foundation, Inc.(RTNFI), Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Cor¬poration (RTNMC), Sumitomo Mitsui Construction Corporation (SMCC) and Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC).

LSVMS fourth year high school students, Chelin B. De Guia and Marianne M. Sacluti, competed for CBNC and Sumitomo Mitsui Con¬struction Corporation respectively.

The game had a little twist since the organizers used the“blind match

pairing” system; the players didn’t knew at the start who would be their opponent nor their partner.

The championship game, a crucial one, was played by RTNMC(Red) and RTNFI; whoever lost would automatically be ranked down to the third place.

RTNFI team which was composed of Dr. Banjo Tantoco, Raquel Tantoco, Gildo Gujelde, Eric Reyes, Jun Villaflor, Wendy Villaflor, RomyMabella, EfledaMabella, Fr. Adrian Usman, Allen Bucsit, Dang Palampisi, Melanie Moreno and Leony Abanto, smashed their opponents and grabbed the championship.

Second place went to CBNC; third place, RTNMC(Red); fourth place, RTNMC(Green), while fifth place went to SMCC.

With 10-0 score during the championship game, LSVMS football players asserted dominance over other LASSO supervised schools during the Super Games held at De La Salle Zobel, Alabang, Muntinlupa last November 17, 2012.

The LSVMS Socceroos, trained by Mr. Wilson Andrin, together with their coach Mr. Rogel Alcantara, overpowered two LASSO Supervised schools, namely, School of St. Brother Benilde (SSBB) from Mexico, Pampanga; and San Lorenzo Academy (SLA) from Albay whom they competed in the said event.

“Our opponents were bigger than we are,” Lawrence Daliva said, “but we did make it,” he continued.

During the championship match, Alexis Dotimas of Second Year Agate ended the hopes of SLA to champion the game as he struck the ball into the goal.

The team had been training since the District Meet. Other than that, there were warm-ups and rigid training that the team had undergone.

“We do a lot of trainings. In the field we first do warm- ups, and of course, we pray before the game starts,” Daliva stated.

Other than the football team, the Badminton Team composed of Anezza Claire Canaveral, Christine Leoncio, Marianne Sacluti, Guia Chelin de Guia, Ronit Jay Sapar and John Lester Hulguin, also participated in the said event.

Student Affairs Coordinator Mrs. Nancy V. Santa Ana remarked that the LASSO Super Games provided opportunities for students from different supervised schools in Luzon to interact with one another through a friendly match.

Supervised Schools from Luzon that participated in the LASSO Supergames included Academe of Donna Christine Cavity, Escuela de Nuestra Sra. De La Sallette Pangasinan, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary School Cavite, San Benildo Integrated School Bulacan, San Lorenzo Academy Albay, School of St. Brother Benilde Pampanga, St. Edward Integrated School Cavite, St. John Inte¬grated School Pampanga, and Leonides S. Virata Memorial School Palawan.

Barako Bulls defender Mr. Sean Michael Dee Anthony, together with other basketball players from UP Diliman, conducted a basketball clinic at the Usman Gymnasium last December 15, 2012 to share skills about basketball.

Forty LSVMS elementary pupils, accompanied by Mr. Rogel Alcantara, Mr.

David Andrin and Carl Kevin Escalante, were given the chance to participate in the said event wherein they were grouped into four teams namely red, blue, green, and yellow.

Mr. Sean conducted the event for the pupils not just to learn basketball, but also to emphasize the idea of teamwork in a team.

“The game is useless without teamwork,” he stated.

The game ended with the Red Team hailed as the winner wherein they received P1000 from Mr. JB Baylon, the team manager, coach, and uncle of Mr. Sean Anthony.

Mr. Sean is looking forward to visit Rio Tuba next year with his colleagues in Barako Bulls.

Sean Anthony conducts Basketball Clinic to LSVMS PupilsBY ANEZZA CLAIRE B. CANAVERAL, AUSTIN B. TATEL and RANESSA D. JAILANI

Barako Bulls’ Defender in Action. Sean Anthony teaches the LSVMS pupils basketball techniques at the Usman Gymnasium last December 15, 2012.

LSVMS smashers bond for Intercompany tourneyBY MA. PATRICIA O. DE CASTRO

June - December 2012 • Page 8

Sports