El Obrero Oct. 2011–Jan. 2012

SJCSI scribes bag writing awards

“B e thankful for modern technology that makes journalism easier to reach its audi-

ence.”

Three first placers; Nine regional press con qualifiers

El Obrero Vol. V ▪ No. 2

October 2011–

January 2012

The official student publication of Saint Joseph College of Sindangan, Inc.–High School, National Highway, Poblacion, Sindangan, 7112 Zamboanga del Norte, Region IX

“Writing is prayer.”

Winners. Nine campus journalists of Saint Joseph College of Sindangan, Inc. High School qualify during the

division schools press conference. Three of them win first places in the individual writing contests.

N ine campus journalists of El Obrero and Ang Mang-

gagawa won in the different individual writing cate-

gories at the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Schools

Press Conference in Dipolog City, Nov. 16–18, 2011.

Fila R. Dagomo, El Obrero

editor in chief, copped the first

place in feature writing.

Mara Aubrey Sistine L.

Escoreal, managing editor, and

Donalyn Aquino, associate editor,

also bagged the first places in

news writing and pagsusulat ng

balita, respectively.

William Andrew G. Bu-

laqueña, Ang Manggagawa editor

in chief, landed at the fifth place

in editorial writing.

Sidney Rico T. Rebollido,

community editor, finished sixth

in pagsusulat ng lathalain.

Francis Joseph T. Fuertes,

cartoonist, and Yanessa S. Naval,

science and technology editor,

won the sixth places in kartung

p a n g - e d i t o r y a l a n d i n

pagwawasto at pag-uulo ng

balita, respectively.

Reger Ed A. Caperig, fea-

ture editor, and Joelan M. Tongco,

Filipino sports bureau chief, se-

cured the seventh places in edito-

rial cartooning and pagsusulat ng

balitang pampalakasan.

The maiden issue of Ang

Manggagawa was awarded third

best Filipino school paper among

the 23 entries.

Caperig and Kevin G.

Siasico were elected president and

sergeant at arms of the ZN High

School Editors Guild, correspond-

ingly.

The nine campus journal-

ists attended the Regional Schools

Press Conference in Zamboanga

City on Dec. 12–14.

500 student writers, advisers join press con This article was awarded first place in the news writing contest during the Zamboanga del Norte Provin-

cial Schools Press Conference. The writer received a gold medal and a certificate.

Senior team defends title

Inter-high school quiz bee

A s champions of the annual inter-high quiz bee school

last year, the Saint Joseph College of Sindangan,

Inc. High School senior team faced the same challenge

and proved they were the team to beat.

Composed of William An-

drew G. Bulaqueña, Janine Claire

T. Jalosjos, Reymund Danielle U.

Jugalbot, and Loryl O. Pelaez, the

SJCSI team led the scoreboard

from the start to finish during the

inter-high school quiz bee at the

municipal quadrangle on Dec. 9.

After the four rounds with

10 questions each, the SJCSI team

amassed 76 points to defend its

title.

The senior team from Sin-

dangan National High School

trailed at 52 points.

The quiz bee questions

were taken from general science,

biology, chemistry, physics, bot-

Alumna named Outstanding Sindanganon

E lma Valera–Canja, an alumna of the former Saint Joseph High School, was among

the nine outstanding Sindanganons who were honored at the enshrinement cere-

mony during the 75th Linggo ng Sindangan celebration, Dec. 22, 2011.

Elma Valera-Canja

Thus said Dr. Elsa P. Cruz,

officer in charge of the Office of

Schools Division Superintendent,

during the opening ceremony of

the 2011 Provincial Schools Press

Conference at the Teachers Gym,

Nov. 16–18.

The theme for this year’s

press conference is ―Promoting

Digital Literacy through Campus

Journalism.‖

A total of 508 student writ-

ers and school paper advisers

from the different elementary and

secondary schools in Zamboanga

del Norte participated in the three-

day conference.

The student journalists

attended the lectures on the differ-

ent aspects of campus journalism.

They competed in the indi-

vidual writing contests on news

writing, editorial writing, feature

writing, sports writing, copyread-

ing and headline writing, and pho-

tojournalism in the two media.

The top seven winners in

each category qualified for the

regional schools press conference

held in Zamboanga City on Dec.

12–14.

For the group contest, 10

elementary and secondary school

papers in English and Filipino

were awarded.

(Mara A. S. L. Escoreal)

Defending champions. The SJCSI senior team receives commemorative

mugs and cash prize for winning the quiz bee (Photo: G. Lamayo)

any, astronomy, marine science,

general information, computer

and information technology, and

current events.

The other participating

teams came from Sindangan Na-

tional Agricultural School, Siare

John H. Roemer Memorial NHS,

Bartolome C. Lira Sr. (Maras)

NHS, Dumalogdog NHS, and

Doña Natividad L. Macias Memo-

rial NHS.

The annual inter-high

school quiz and spelling bee is

organized by the local govern-

ment of Sindangan for the founda-

tion anniversary celebration.

(Janine Claire T. Jalosjos)

issuu.com/elObrero

Special Issue: SSC Elections ‟12 ISSN 2243-8319

Valera–Canja graduated

from SJHS in March 1971.

Valera–Canja was Miss

SJHS during her student days.

A registered nurse, she had

worked at the Sindangan General

Hospital, then in Manila, and Al

Jazeira Hospital in Abu Dhabi,

United Arab Emirates.

Valera–Canja is the owner

of Philippine National School,

which employs a number of Fili-

pino teachers in the UAE.

The other awardees were

Dr. Walter O. Albos Sr., CESO

III, the regional director of the

Department of Education—

Zamboanga Peninsula;

Loreto T. Bhagwani, the

regional director of the Depart-

ment of Interior and Local Gov-

ernment—Northern Mindanao;

Engr. Eulalio Ganzon, the

president and chairman of E. Gan-

zon, Inc.;

Rep. Rosendo S. Labad-

labad, second congressional dis-

trict of Zamboanga del Norte;

Retired Judge Wilfredo C.

Martinez, Regional Trial Court,

Branch 10—Dipolog City;

Rep. Cresente C. Paez,

Party List, Coop—NATCCO;

Atty. Lourdes Melicor-

Trasmonte, undersecretary of the

Department of Labor and Em-

ployment; and

Gen. Alexander B. Yano,

former chief of staff of the Armed

Forces of the Philippines and am-

bassador to Brunei Darussalam.

A selection committee

conducted the search for out-

standing and successful residents

who are known for their philan-

thropy to the community and ex-

cellence in their respective fields

of specialization.

(Donalyn E. Aquino)

02 >

Great expectations

C harles Dickens‟ classic set in 1812, or around 200

years ago, reminds us of Pip–his encounter with a

convict, the large sum of money from an anonymous

benefactor, the convict being sent back to jail, and so on.

Fila R. Dagomo [email protected]

Donalyn E. Aquino [email protected]

Brain pincers

Signs

Like, vote, and win!

T he Supreme Student Council will once again hold

its annual election of officers for the next school

year. With the amendments in our constitution and by-

laws, a number of positions that used to be filled by ap-

pointees are now up for grabs.

In the past few weeks, the students had learned about the

election and the processes that candidates must go through to be

elected into office.

It is important for the students to realize that we live in a

democratic society where we, the people, have the power to

elect whom we want to represent our voices.

In the same manner, the students have the right to elect

responsible student leaders who are willing to work hard in or-

der to serve us by representing our issues.

The election will be a perfect way for us to apply the

knowledge that we have gained from our lessons on the types of

governments to the actual election we are having in our school.

We spent a great deal of time discussing the importance of

being informed voters and thoroughly discussed the qualities

that a good student council officer should possess.

The importance of good character over good clothes, ath-

letic skills, or popularity was emphasized throughout the entire

process. We were encouraged to honestly evaluate each candi-

date to determine his or her ability to be an honest, responsible,

and humble representative.

We expect that our leaders maintain a high standard of

personal conduct. The SSC officers should demonstrate leader-

ship qualities by serving as good examples of behavior through

their words and actions to make a positive impact in the school

and community environment.

We look forward to joining in more special events and

projects as we want to be involved in many student-minded ac-

tivities. But for now, we need to elect the officers who can pro-

mote school spirit and leadership among students.

Not everyone‟s place

B ased on my observations as a senior student, many

of my schoolmates are better off elsewhere being

trained with a different set of skills. It is not that they

are incapable of learning, but the rigor of mental exer-

cise just does not fit them well.

In the Philippine educational system, the high school

years are supposed to prepare the students for tertiary education.

My only concern is that only a small percentage of high school

graduates are actually going to college and even fewer of us will

earn a master’s degree.

Sad to say, majority of the graduates will not continue

formal education partly due to financial difficulties, and some

would prefer to be engaged in economic activities.

Perhaps the plan of the Department of Education to ex-

tend basic education by two years can provide the solution. The

implementation of K+12 next school year will raise the coun-

try’s basic education to world standards and produce high school

graduates ready to be employed even without a college degree.

Going back to the students who do not know what to do

with their lives at 15 or 16 years old, K+12 will offer various

career tracks in the final two years, whether it be in the per-

forming arts, technical–vocational training, sports, and ag-

riculture, among others, depending on their inclination and

mental capability.

The K+12 will be the best educational reform if it

can develop the skills to prepare students for the world of

work, higher education, and global employment. The stu-

dents can then realize their self-worth as individuals and

productive citizens despite not earning a college degree;

and in the face of being belittled, ignored, or humiliated by

society that puts a premium value on a college diploma as

a guarantee to personal success.

For now, completing high school is the greatest ex-

perience in our lives. It is the crucial point in our lives that

we chart the course of our future.

Lest we forget, college education is no longer a basic

human right. It is a privilege reserved for those who can

afford it. (Sidney Rico T. Rebollido)

Campus politics Mildred B. Baculpo

MMXII

E very new year brings forth new hopes and the

promise of a bountiful and fortuitous new year to

make up for the misfortunes of the past year. The Year

of the Dragon is also auspicious to some believers.

Editorial

Commentary

2 Editorial issuu.com/elObrero Special Issue

Oct. 2011–Jan. 2012

Is she a good leader?

I promise to...

Is she popular to win?

She‟s got

the looks!

From the countdown to the

joyful welcome of 2012 marked

by the unending blast of fire-

works, no doubt could be no such

lively and delightful feeling than

celebrating new year with cheer

and merriment.

The time for celebrations

also calls for a moment of reflec-

tion of what came to pass during

the year especially the tragedies

that struck the Philippines and the

countless lives lost in the catastro-

phes.

How could we be festive

when thousands of Filipinos are

of public trust. This will surely

boost the popularity ratings of

President Aquino as this is consis-

tent with the ―path of righteous-

ness‖ that he has been advocating.

An acquittal is not a re-

mote possibility considering how

the senator–judges would vote

due to their political affiliations,

among other reasons.

Either decision is a sign

that our hard-won democracy is

very much alive, and that the three

branches of the government are

working.

Indeed, with high ranks

come great expectations.

The impeachment trial of

Chief Justice Renato Corona, a

midnight appointee of former

President Gloria M. Arroyo, has

more or less the same elements.

As one of the defenders of

the former president, Corona is

suspected to have benefited from

his appointment. The media are

strongly convinced, judging the

facts and figures they have un-

earthed.

But even before the live

trial started, the Filipinos had al-

ready come up with a verdict,

despite the presumption of inno-

cence, that our chief justice made

a mistake that would cost his posi-

tion and ruin his reputation. And

yet some believe Corona is just a

victim of the mistakes of others.

Being open minded, we

can see that the chief justice is

also another citizen of the Philip-

pines but only having a high posi-

tion in our society. As head of the

judiciary, he ranks co-equal with

the president of the Republic and

the head of the House of Repre-

sentatives.

One of the prosecution’s

evidences is his unexplained asset.

Why was Corona given a 40-

percent discount (worth P10 mil-

lion) in his purchase of a pent-

house unit at Bellagio?

As ordinary citizens would

normally ask for discounts for a

better bargain, Corona’s case is

different. Was the so-called dis-

count freely given like any ordi-

nary customer or it did it come

with strings attached? What spe-

cial favors could the realtors ask

from the court especially if they

had pending litigations?

Corona was pressured to

release his statement of assets,

liabilities, and net worth. His

SALN is under scrutiny for his

unexplained wealth that the hoi

polloi can only dream about but

cannot really figure out how

much.

The Filipinos look forward

to a conviction due to his betrayal

homeless and still coming to

terms with the aftermath of the

disastrous flash flooding?

On the other hand, the gov-

ernment through the Department

of Health had been campaigning

against the use of firecrackers due

to the number of casualties during

the past few years especially at

this time of the holiday season.

But why is the illegal fire-

cracker industry still thriving even

with the ban in place? Why can

the other cities and towns not fol-

low the example set by Davao

City? Do our government offi-

cials have the political will to im-

plement similar ordinances?

Despite the warnings and

the heightened alert at hospitals,

the number of victims rose. There

were more firecracker-related

injuries and deaths this year as

compared to the previous new

year’s days.

Clearly, the Filipinos have

never learned at all. For one,

meeting the new year by lighting

firecrackers and firing guns is not

traditionally Filipino.

Gone are the days when

children look forward to the lan-

taka and luthang. Fireworks dis-

plays have become the main at-

tractions these days. We have

preferred the more ear-shattering

cacophony to scare the demons

back to Hell.

For the Chinoys, the year

of the water dragon is promising.

The dragon is believed to bestow

prosperity and longevity. The

dragon will bring good fortune in

the months ahead.

We have no control over

the typhoons and other calamities,

but we can do something to pre-

vent the loss of lives and property.

These disasters remind us that we

are the victims of our own apathy.

In the same vein, some

may sacrifice a finger or two

trusting that the good fortune they

seek will be realized.

Eau claire

Curfew for teenagers

C ities, towns, and barangays are implementing curfew

for the safety of teenagers. Are they prone to danger

or is it a hindrance to their merriment at night?

As what we always hear from the news and the gossip

around, innocent civilians, mostly teenagers, are facing the increas-

ing senselessness of the society: unprovoked murder, hostage-

taking, harassment, drug addiction, and worst the latest ―internal

organ‖ robbery.

The government officials have been shaken by fear since the

common targets are students. They are easily victimized and can

be brainwashed. The crime rates have risen , thus alarming the

leaders to pass ordinances on curfew for the teenagers’ safety.

The sole purpose of implementing curfew for minors is to

counteract the ongoing social problems. Curfew is deemed to be

the most effective and immediate response of the local govern-

ments for to these crimes. However, the teenagers view the imple-

mentation as a curtailment of their freedom. It limits their time

outside their home and on the streets especially at night.

Students who always want to go out at night just for the sake

of entertainment are restricted. Parents, on the other hand, are re-

lieved that the curfew helps them control their spoiled children

from coming home late.

The teenagers who spend most of their daytime inside the

classroom seek respite from the outside world. Jamming with

friends and visiting Internet cafés after classes provide a break

from the grind of a student’s life.

Even though curfew is frowned upon by others, it is the

right action that the local government units have initiated in view

of the pressing problems. It is their responsibility—to protect the

residents and guarantee their safety at all times—which is misun-

derstood by the teenagers because of their point of view.

The curfew is something that the younger generation has to

live with for the good of our country, for the sake of all concerned,

and for the protection of lives.

This editorial cartoon was awarded seventh place during the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Schools

Press Conference, Dipolog City.

Calamities in our midst

I t takes a crisis to prove how strong a man could be, but

it takes a calamity of biblical proportions for Filipinos

to realize the cost of environmental degradation and stub-

bornness to ignore government warnings.

Mara A.S.L. Escoreal [email protected]

The piggy pen

Janine Claire T. Jalosjos [email protected]

I cannot believe that with the funds collected from the fines,

the SSC came up with only trashcans and mirrors.

—Christian Angelo M. Beri, III-St. Augustine

I commend the leadership of SSC this school year.

—Jeanelyn C. Cabual, IV-St. Agnes

We would like to thank the SSC for completing their projects.

We are truly grateful for the school improvements. They are

indeed doing their jobs, and we appreciate their efforts. How-

ever, we would like to see more developments in the campus

next school year.

—Adriane Jay C. Alforque, I-St. Anne

Some of the officers are inactive. Some officers practised fa-

voritism.

—Ryan Rey H. Maquiling, IV-St. Agnes

I have not seen any improvement around. They have collected

enough fines from us.

—Rene Mart M. Lejano, III-St. Augustine

They have put up more projects this year as compared to the

previous administrations.

—Wendy A. Balamban, IV-St. Agnes

We have no complaints. The SSC projects are useful for the

students.

—Niño Kerhino A. Secretario, I-St. Cecilia

SSC has improved a lot. The officers are responsible leaders.

—Shynah May S. Largo, III-Augustine

The SSC is responsive to the students’ needs.

—Miko Magallanes, IV-St. Agnes

We are complaining about our classroom. We need electric

fans. We hope the SSC will consider our situation.

—Rica Mae D. Dionglay, I-St. Francis

At least we have seen some improvements. For one, the offi-

cers have a uniform now. They are active, too.

—Krystel Mea U. Sumalinog, IV-St. Agnes

They had fulfilled what they promised to us during the cam-

paign. We are grateful for the trashcans and mirrors. Keep up

the good work!

—Genevive L. Dagondong, III-St. Augustine

This article was awarded fifth place in the editorial writing contest

during the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Schools Press Conference.

The long arm of the law Reger Ed A. Caperig

Despite the total log ban, at

least two logging companies were

still operating in the hinterlands of

Mindanao.

On the other hand, some

residents of Cagayan de Oro and

Iligan cities refused to relocate

even if the site they were occupy-

ing was already identified as high-

risk to flooding.

When typhoon Sendong

entered the Philippine area of re-

sponsibility, PAG-ASA did not

fail in issuing weather updates.

How easily we blame the

government for any calamity that

claims a number of lives is the

same manner how we speak well

of our complacency for any mis-

fortune that befalls on us.

Unknown to many resi-

dents, the volume of water from

the 10-hour torrential rains had

accumulated in the mountains of

Bukidnon and Lanao.

It was just unfortunate that

most of them were sound asleep

when the deluge of water, debris,

and logs came.

On the other hand, heavy

rains in Compostela Valley trig-

gered a landslide in a small min-

ing community. At least 30 min-

ers were killed and a number still

missing, believed to be trapped.

Per National Disaster Risk

Reduction and Management

Council, at least 1,257 people died

and 85 were reported missing.

The impact from a tropical

storm and the damage to agricul-

ture and infrastructure was esti-

mated to reach P1 billion.

But out of the victims’

misery, some good things came

out from the people’s generosity.

When the President ap-

pealed the Filipinos to help the

victims as their way of celebrating

Christmas, donations poured in.

Overseas humanitarian aid

arrived with the United Nations

and its agencies releasing and

pledging millions of dollars.

History reminds us that the

same calamity happened in Or-

moc City long before most of us

were born. Thousands of people

were also killed in the flashflood.

Until recently, we had re-

fused to heed the call of the times.

When should we ever learn who

benefits from deforestation? Why

should we never ignore weather

advisories again?

Despite the catastrophe,

the people were able to rise again.

Now it takes a crisis, man-made

or not, to test the Filipinos’ resil-

iency.

Opinion 3 elObrero.journ.ph Special Issue

Oct. 2011–Jan. 2012

SSC Performance Review The day is marked with

sending cards, chocolates, gifts,

and flowers. Lovers and couples

even dine outside, watch movies,

and express their love and affec-

tion for each other.

But did you know that in

Japan and South Korea only the

girls are entitled to be the only

one giving?

Every Feb. 14, all maidens

and ladies in love buy or make

chocolates for their lovers or

crushes; that is why the boys

really do look forward to this day.

How about the girls? Do

they get to receive something too?

White Day is the exact

opposite of Valentine’s Day. This

is celebrated every March 14 in

Japan.

During this day, boys are

to give gifts to those girls who

gave them some chocolates during

Valentine’s Day, but usually it

should be twice or thrice as ex-

pensive as the girl’s gift. Com-

monly, their presents include

white chocolates or cakes, white

flowers, and sometimes white

lingerie (for adults only).

Those singles who did not

receive anything during those

holidays also have their own cele-

bration. On April 14 (Black Day),

these lonely and loveless singles

go to a Korean restaurant to eat

black noodles and ―mourn‖ their

single life. In Taiwan the situation is

the reverse of Japan’s. Men give

gifts to women in Valentine’s

Day, and women return them on

White Day.

In China , the man

Love holiday, the Asian way

V alentine‟s Day is celebrated in many countries to

honor an early Christian martyr. Through time, it

has evolved from its Christian origin to a cultural and

commercial celebration in the modern times.

gives chocolate, flowers, or both

to the woman that he loves. This

is done during the Qixi Festival,

celebrated on the seventh day of

the seventh month of the lunar

calendar.

Among the Asians, the

Singaporeans, Chinese, and South

Koreans are known to spend the

most money on Valentine’s gifts.

In the Philippines, Araw ng

mga Puso is getting commercial-

ized. It even defies the law of

economics. Despite the abundant

supply of cut flowers to meet the

demand, the price of red roses

remains steep.

The high school junior–

senior prom is usually held near

this day.

School children decorate

the classrooms with heart, dove,

and Cupid cut-outs. They also

make cards in their arts class.

But can we not exchange

greetings that we appreciate each

other not only on Valentine’s Day

but also anytime any day?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_China

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chocolate

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qixi_Festival

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korea

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korea

Age: 16

Birthday: January 16

Zodiac sign: Capricorn

Religion: Roman Catholic

Student organizations:

Ang Manggagawa, Campus Ministry

Volunteers, Collectors’ Guild,

and Lector Club

Other Affiliations:

Youth for Christ

Catholic Women’s League

Special talents:

Dancing and hosting

Concerned Advocate for Uniform and Standard Education

We seek for change, we plead for cause.

Roxanne B. Dataro for President

CAUSE Party

1. What is your main reason for

aspiring to be the SSC presi-

dent?

My primary aspiration is to attempt and

make changes for the school. I want to be a role

model for my younger brothers and sisters to

accomplish the promises of past leaders and their

lack of passion for being one. I will just try to

solve to the main problems of our campus and

help make this school even better than we imag-

ined.

2. What is your party’s campaign

slogan?

We seek for change, we plead for cause.

3. Do you always like being a

leader?

Yes, but there are times that I do not like to

be bossy and all. But in cases where a leader is

needed, I would love to lead everyone.

4. Do you like to help others in

our school?

Yes, of course. Helping others in any situa-

tion might not be easy, but it is a noble thing.

Both I and those people whom I choose to help

are benefitted.

5. Are you an honest, sincere,

and genuine student leader?

I am not that perfect to possess those great

traits a leader must have. I mean I am not a 100-

percent genuine, honest, and sincere person.

But all in all, I try my best to be genuine, honest,

and sincere as you want me to be.

6. Are you popular to win this

election?

Being popular is definitely important in the

field of campus politics even though I do not

know if I am that popular in the campus. This

school is not that big and almost all of us know

each other, which is good by the way. I am not

that positive on popularity. I have doubts, but I

hope I am.

7. Do you think your schoolmates

are tired of seeing the same peo-

ple win?

I do not think so. If they chose those people

to win, it is probably because they had more ex-

periences or had done great in the past.

8. How do you assess the present

student council?

They are doing great; and they are very ac-

tive and responsible to their obligations.

9. What are some good projects

for a high school student coun-

cil?

A. Maintaining cleanliness of the restrooms

and providing toiletries

B. Installing a drinking water system

10. The school will increase tui-

tion next school year. What im-

provements do you look forward

to?

* Well-ventilated classrooms

* Hiring of janitors

* Lockers

* Repainting of classrooms

* Whyte boards

Meryl Aurece R. Enriquez

for Vice President

CAUSE Party

Age: 15

Birthday: August 27

Zodiac sign: Virgo



El Obrero, Collectors’ Guild,

Campus Ministry Volunteers,

and Lector Club

Special talents:

Dancing and singing


aspiring to be the SSC vice

president?

For the past three years of being a student at

Saint Joseph College of Sindangan, Inc., I have

always sought for change because I believe that

the school deserves the best. Our party’s main

target is for our fellow students’ voices to be

heard and their intentions to be realized. If ever

elected to be the vice president, I would like to

be a part in fulfilling their aspirations.


leader?

Truth be told, I have never had any leader-

ship experience until I was in third year.

Through the urge for advocacy, I have envi-

sioned that I, too, can make changes for the

school. Hopefully, I may be considered worthy

to be elected.


our school?

Most definitely. Our party strives to help the

school become better. Since we are willing to

make changes, we need the support of the stu-

dents. It would be to our credit if we sustained

improvements in the campus. But we cannot

reach our goals without the support of the student

body.



I do not know if I have all these good traits

to be called a suitable student leader, but I know

that I have the passion to help and improve this

school in every possible way I can.


election?

Frankly, popularity really is not what is im-

portant in winning an election. It is the capabil-

ity of the person to fulfill the position he/she is

running for to see if that person is fit and worthy

to earn the students’ trust.



ple win?

That depends on which specific students

who won. It is the responsiveness of the person

to be able to please the students with his/her ac-

complishments. Probably those students have

shown examples and have done great to earn my

schoolmates’ trust.


student council?

The officers are doing a suitable develop-

ment for the school. They truly are the right peo-

ple to be elected. They have met the students’

expectations of them.

“… I do not know if I am that popular in our school.”

“I know that I have the passion to help and improve this school… . ”

Reshaping Environmental Standards by Portraying

Oneself to Nurture the Development of the School

Yes, we can; change starts here—with us!

Judee B. Garsuta for President

RESPOND Party

Age: 15

Birthday: October 15

Zodiac sign: Libra



El Obrero, Ang Manggagawa, Glee

Club, SJCSI Band, Lector Club,

Campus Ministry Volunteers, and

Collectors’ Guild

Other Affiliations:

Youth for Christ

Catholic Women’s League (pres.)

Special talents:

Dancing and dancing

Age: 19

Birthday: July 31

Zodiac sign: Leo



El Obrero, Ang Manggagawa, CMV,

and Collectors’ Guild

Other Affiliation:

Youth for Christ

Special talent:

Dancing


aspiring to be the SSC presi-

dent?

Foremost, I want to answer the calls and

complaints of the students. Then I would like to

measure my worth and ability to lead, to improve

the quality and standards in serving our school

and my fellow students, and to offer this for the

glory of God, the owner of my abilities.

2. What is your party’s campaign

slogan?

Yes, we can; change starts here—with us!


leader?

Yes, it is evident in the many organizations

that I am involved with. Being a leader taught

me patience, sincerity, realization of my capabili-

ties and skills, and skills. I believe that thinking

for the welfare of the students is among my per-

sonality traits.


our school?

Yes, of course. If you will be a leader, you

will start to help yourself.



Yes, I am. I was born, nurtured, and guided

by these traits.


election?


aspiring to be the SSC vice

president?

I know that I could be a good leader. I am

bold and tough enough to handle the challenges I

will encounter.


leader?

It is my greatest dream to become a leader

someday. Since I was in the elementary grades, I

have always wanted to serve my fellow students.


our school?

Helping others is one of my passions in life.

It is not that I want to show that I am a good per-

son but because I know exactly how it feels to be

helpless. I have been through a lot of struggles

and difficulties in life. I love to help others in

any way I can.



I believe in myself and my sincerity to lead

the SSC. I am also honest to serve them in terms

of helping for the development of the school by

coming up with projects that are beneficial to the

students.

I think I have the confidence in myself. I

know I have the chance in winning this election.

Student leaders are not born, SSC makes them.



ple win?

I cannot tell, but I guess they need a new

breed of leaders.


student council?

They need a lot of improvement to make

special projects that address the main concerns of

the students.

9. What are some good projects

for a high school student coun-

cil?

A. Chairs and tables (rest area for students

during non-class hours)

B. Drinking fountains

C. Fund-raising activities by the different

club not only to generate income but also to de-

velop the talents (cooking, selling, handicraft-

making, etc.) of the students

10. The school will increase tui-

tion next school year. What im-

provements do you look forward

to?

* Well-ventilated classrooms

* Repainting of classrooms

* Faster Internet connection


election?

I am confident that I have some friends who

will support for my victory.



ple win?

They have the right to choose the right

leader.


student council?

They must follow the rules and regulations.

They should be role models in and out of the

campus.

“Leaders are not born. SSC makes them.”

Joelan M. Tongco

for Vice President

RESPOND Party

“… I know exactly how it feels to be helpless. ”

Outstanding Sindanganon

A n outstanding pupil

in her elementary

years, beauty queen dur-

ing her high school days,

nurse by profession, over-

seas contract worker by

choice, and entrepreneur

in spirit, Elma Valera–

Canja looks back at her

humble beginnings and is

proud of her accomplish-

ments.

One of the aspiring singers in town happens to be a Josephian.

Ryan Ganzali Barrogo, a senior, is one of the two children of Rey Allan, a

security guard, and Wilma Barrogo, an elementary grade teacher. He

grew up in Brgy. Piao where his family still resides.

Ryan started singing since he was in the first grade. A small boy

at 6 years old, he had his first public appearance during a recognition

ceremony in Brgy. Siare. He wowed the crowd with his interpretation of

―Isang Lahi‖ by Regine Velasquez.

Aware of their child’s amazing musical gift, Ryan’s parents sup-

ported their son. With them as his first mentors, Ryan indeed underwent

a very rigid training to develop his voice quality. He would wake up

early to jog for stamina. His father also placed him in a drum filled with

cold water so that he would learn to control his voice and improve his

timbre. Through time, he got used to that routine. He also believes that

constant practice makes his talent perfect.

Ryan sings all types of songs. It is his way of expressing himself.

It was only at age 9 that Ryan had voice lessons with Jerson Guzon, a

teacher at Philippine Advent College (PAC). The gift of music actually

runs in the family. As Ryan claims, he got his voice from his parents. His

sister Cherry Mae is a talented singer, too.

Together with his sister and voice instructor, Ryan has gone to

different places not only to join the competitions but also to show his tal-

ent. Traveling has also awakened the wanderlust in him for traveling, like

singing, brought home some wonderful memories.

Ryan’s big break came when he and Cherry Mae were invited to

sing at PAC to entertain some visitors who came from the United States.

Astonished by the siblings’ voices, they were invited to go to Manila.

There they sang and entertained the customers at Pilita Corrales’

restaurant. They met the bigwigs of the music industry who offered them

voice lessons so that they could eventually manage the talents.

However, Mila Macias, who was responsible for them at that time,

refused that they entered into contracts. She wanted them to finish their

studies first. But Ryan’s mother decided that Cherry Mae would stay

there and go on with her training.

It was a big adjustment for Ryan who was not used to being away

from his only sibling. But coming back home was an opportunity to

make a name for himself in the local music scene.

At 13, Ryan already won in the amateur singing contest organized

by the local government. At such tender age, he was invited in several

occasions as the wedding singer. He had gone as far as Dipolog, Ipil, and

Dumaguete to share his voice.

In 2008, Ryan joined the Sing á la Star–Bulilit edition for the first

time, but he lost because of technical errors. Such defeat never dampened

his spirit for he joined again the same competition but in the regular edi-

tion this time.

From the weekly eliminations until the final three rounds, Ryan

proved that his singing prowess was topnotch. Last Dec. 25, 2011, he

was proclaimed as the grand champion of the Sing á la Star contest.

After the long preparation for the competition, Ryan is now back

to the usual grind of things as an ordinary student. Once in a while he

renders some soulful music to inspire newlyweds, but he has remained

steadfast on his goal in life, and that is to be a famous singer someday.

Sing á la Star Little King, Big Star

H is name means a “little king,” but he is a big star in

his own right! Meet the champion of the recent

Sing á la Star contest… .

Champion 2011. Ryan G. Bar-

rogo finally wins the title after a

mind-boggling defeat that only

encouraged him to sing even bet-

ter than he used to do.

6 Feature issuu.com/elObrero Special Issue

Oct. 2011–Jan. 2012

Cynthia Kareen J. Nazario [email protected]

Awardee. Elma Valera–Canja accepts her award, recalls the hardship of

growing up, and shares her vision for fellow Sindanganons.

Elma is one of the 16 children of Alejandro P. Valera and Angel-

ica S. Tabinas. She grew up in Bacungan (now Leon Postigo), Zambo-

anga del Note. She witnessed how her parents strived hard to meet life’s

demand—without giving her up to her aunt, Mamay Tanang, who wanted

to adopt her.

Sharing household chores among her brothers and sisters made her

responsible, she attests. She took care of her younger siblings when their

doting mother busied herself for extra earnings to augment the

family income while their father diligently carried out his duty as a

teacher.

She graduated third honors at Bacungan Elementary School in

1967. She then enrolled at the former Saint Joseph High School where

she graduated in 1971.

Elma remembers how her formative years had shaped her outlook

in life. According to her, she had fully embraced the family’s pride

whose heart and mind truly accepted the great challenges that conditioned

her strong conviction and manifested a positive perspective in her life.

Elma earned her nursing degree from Southwestern University in

1976. She had worked as a staff nurse of the Sindangan General Hospital

before she left for Manila to be a company nurse of Araneta Coliseum

and as an industrial nurse at Advance Micro Devices.

Working at her hometown enabled her to reach out to the under-

privileged and to inspire them to see the beauty of life, which also molded

her to see the meaning of life and be grateful of life’s treasures.

Elma married Romulo A. Canja, a businessman, in 1990. They are

blessed with two children, Kevin and Maria Romela, who are both col-

lege students.

Contentment of life is unachievable without the lonesome mo-

ments. Obstructions and tempests have to be encountered in order to ap-

preciate and experience the meaning of a true life story, according to her.

She left the country as an overseas contract worker and became a

senior staff nurse at Al Jazeira Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

However, she did not limit herself to her chosen field. Seeing the

need of the OFWs who brought their families with them, she opened the

Philippine National School. She is currently the owner and school direc-

tress of this private school that aims to provide quality education to its

students and employment for the Filipino teachers.

Then again, there have been impediments in the management and

financial viability of her business. Her faith, as she puts it, is always a

blazing trail from above that waves her shadow to cease her wrong beliefs

and motivate her to sail on for He has a master plan into whatever things

and decision she will undertake.

Elma also assumed ownership of Golden City Tailoring in 1998.

Through her garment factory, she has donated bed sheets to Sindangan

District Hospital.

Elma completed her master’s in business administration in 2009.

She is currently taking up her doctorate in business development.

Like her fellow awardees who have left Sindangan to realize their

potentials elsewhere, Elma also shares a vision for her hometown: A

peaceful community to live in with dignified professionals who carry out

good values and admirable traits. She plans to put up an exclusive private

school that provides quality education so that students do not need to

travel far to study. She dreams that one day, this community could pro-

duce a new breed of good and well-mannered youth—the future out-

standing Sindanganons.

Acknowledgment: Municipal Administrator’s Office

Alumna „71

Pamela Mennet V. Llorente

& Rosel Rio R. Tobias

Banana split Winning entry

Fila R. Dagomo [email protected]

This article was awarded first place in the feature writing

contest during the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Schools Press

Conference. The writer received a gold medal and a certificate.

A classic cartoon joke, which I never imag-

ined to ever happen to me, never fails to

tickle my funny bone. It was two years ago, but I

remember it as if it was just a few moments ago.

It was a boring Saturday afternoon, just perfect to test myself how to use my imagina-

tion to make it enjoyable. I could have gone biking or hanging out with my friends at their

houses, or gone for a joyride, but no. I just had this urge to go shopping. So, I took out my

wallet and crossed my fingers, wishing that I had money left in it. But it was just not my day.

My wallet did not have any juice left to squeeze out. Sigh.

I invited my friends to go window shopping instead. Not as fun as buying something,

but I needed it to pass the time. We decided to go to some dress shops. As we were walking

to the shop, one of my friends and I spotted a very cute dress. We both looked at each other,

squealed, and raced for it. Unfortunately for me, I did not notice the banana peel that was on

the pavement. I stepped on it and I slipped. And I actually managed to do a split on the side-

walk—I did not even know that my body was capable of doing that! Seriously. All my

friends burst with laughter and laughed their hearts out. And I laughed with them to avoid

the embarrassment. Well, that is what friends do. They do not laugh at you, they laugh with

you. My friends helped me get up and, with a pinch of luck, I recovered my poise.

Believe me, my hips hurt doing that stunt. But it earned a very good spot at my funny

memories hall of fame. It started as a boring day but ended up with the perfect ―banana split‖

to tickle my funny bone.

My heart

Marchie S. Española

My precious property

This fragile beat, accept thee

Long I have wailed for your answer:

Is it a yes or a no?

Do you accept my offer?

Love me!

Never put me in vain,

Nor in melancholy,

Never waste it, never ever

This is not an obsession,

Not an infatuation

Love, this is an exact intuition.

Receive it, welcome it, take it

Let this be yours, be united with it

My all, my wealth in life,

My heart,

Let it be yours, too!

Is love really for all?

Rosel Rio R. Tobias

As a growing teen of this generation

I am puzzled of true love’s definition

Just like a mystery,

Everybody has his own notion

Whether positive, it involves emotion.

Love is a wonderful thing

But if you’ll let go of it

The pain of losing

Is all worth it.

Addicted to you

Pamela Mennet V. Llorente

Everyday my heart speaks out your name

My heart is shouting—

Screaming, and missing you each time

Will this love for you last forever?

Or is this simply a task?

If this life gets tough and crazy

Will you love me anyway?

If I tell you how much I care for you

Will you say the same to me?

And if people want us to be apart

Will you fight for this love?

Can Death even break us apart?

So many questions in my mind

All I need is an answer.

Need I remind you

That I love you?

Lasting love

Feldene D. Tan

Forever I will love you

No matter what

Forever I will love you

And I won’t give up

For I can’t stop loving you.

You will always stay in my heart

No matter how long we will be apart

No matter who’s to blame

I will love you forever

And forever I will be the same.

Ambiguous villain

Donalyn E. Aquino

Entangled in vague tranquility

The dudgeon of one unknown

Stripped with mere enormity

Thy fury forever imprisoned.

Release him from mere obscurity

Lest the rage leads to perniciousness

Oh, poor ill-mannered being

Only few can fathom

I reckon.

Tell me

Von Vladimier B. Montayre

Tell me—

Why the sun is bright.

Why the moon only shines at night.

Why riverbeds may run dry.

Why lovers sometimes cry.

Tell me—

Why should spring come and go.

Why should there be weal and woe.

Why promises are sometimes broken.

Why true love be for granted taken.

Tell me—

Why is a man fallible.

Why is a woman gullible.

Why there is truth and a lie.

Why there is a word goodbye.

Tell me—

Why there are dusk and dawn.

Why there are bleak and bloom.

Why there are lovers and friends.

Why true love always wins.

Tell me—

Why love is beautiful.

My all

Feldene D. Tan

Your eyes are my guide

I’ll always stay by your side

I won’t let go

Of the love I find in you.

Your smile is my light

I had loved you before the first sight

Forever you’ll be my dream knight.

Your hair, your ears, your lips

I love them all, especially your face,

This love will never be replaced.

Meant to be

Feldene D. Tan

We were born to be together

I’ll love you forever

No matter how much I’m gonna suffer.

May our love forever exist

I’ll always insist

With you, and I don’t care the rest.

Love in disguise

Jasmin Rose A. Castillon

The wind blows soothingly

As the sun shines brightly

Everyday seems very funny

Knowing you are there beside me.

You’re the one who makes me laugh

Every time my mood is very tough

You’re the clown of my life

Each day with you for me is not enough.

As I enjoy this feeling quite new

I never thought I’d fall in love with you.

The happiness you bring whenever I’m blue

Opens my delicate heart without a clue.

Every moment we spent together

Are the ones I’ll cherish forever

Hoping you would always remember

That forgetting you is never ever.

Literary 7 elObrero.journ.ph Special Issue

Oct. 2011–Jan. 2012

Sindangan fêtes diamond yearSindangan fêtes diamond yearSindangan fêtes diamond year

Sindangan hosts, wins ZN MeetSindangan hosts, wins ZN MeetSindangan hosts, wins ZN Meet

Champions. Dr. Shirley T. Rebollido, supervisor of Sindangan Central District, receives the trophy for USAA as

the overall champion for the elementary level. (Photo: Marcher Sugod)

Palarong Panlalawigan 2011 Tally

Showdown. The SJCSI High School Band presents a medley of pop songs during the opening program held at

the municipal quadrangle. (Photo: Gilbert Lamayo)

Elementary Level Secondary Level

Delegation Points Delegation Points

1 United Sindangan 364.50 United Sindangan 399.50

2 ZN South 297.50 ZN Coastal HS 283.00

3 ZN Coastal Schools 212.00 Second CDAA 199.00

4 ZN North 207.00 SMSS 177.00

5 First CDAA 149.50

6 Polanco Bulls 91.00

7 Liloy NHS 52.00

T he local government unit commemorated the 75th founding anniversary of the mu-

nicipality with various activities during the Linggo ng Sindangan, Dec. 16–22.

Bb. Sindangan 2011. Kathleen Cate Sumbilon wins this year’s pageant.

First runner-up is Lesley N. Carvajal (right), a business administration

student. Last year’s titleholder was Sheena Marie S. Calvo, an English

major education student at SJCSI. (Photo: Marcher Sugod)

The public and private

school teachers; government em-

ployees and staff from the munici-

pal offices; and representatives

from the banking, lending, and

cooperative sectors participated in

the grand parade around the town

center.

The highlight of the open-

ing ceremony was showdown by

the different high school bands in

town.

The Saint Joseph College

of Sindangan, Inc. High School

band presented a medley of songs

interpreted by the majorettes and

twirlers and by selected drum-

mers.

Other activities for the

week-long celebration were the

search for Bb. Sindangan 2011,

Sing Á la Star, Department of

Education Night, and the en-

shrinement ceremony of the out-

standing Sindanganons who ex-

celled in their respective fields of

expertise.

Kathleen Cate Sumbilon,

an alumna of SJCSI High School

Class 2011, was crowned Bb.

Sindangan 2011.

She represented the Sin-

dangan Market Vendors’ Associa-

tion.

Ryan G. Barrogo, a Jose-

phian senior, bested the other

singers with his rendition of

― M o v e s L i k e J a g g e r , ‖

―Pagbigyang Muli,‖ and ―Lately‖

to win the singing competition

championship held at SJCSI gym.

Elma Valera–Canja, a Jo-

sephian alumna known for her

entrepreneurship and philan-

thropy, was among the nine

awardees.

During the DepEd Night, a

group of high school teachers and

college instructors from SJCSI

performed a modern dance.

Students from SJCSI also

joined in the inter-high school

quiz and spelling bee.

The senior team, a defend-

ing champion, won first place in

the quiz bee.

The sophomore team com-

posed of Reger Ed A. Caperig,

Fivos C. Patsalidis, Rhave I. Bar-

celo, and Alejandro M. Ludina Jr.

was the second placer in the quiz

bee for their year level.

(Yanessa S. Naval)

Pangasinan wins

2012 Palarong Pambansa bid

Saint Joseph College of Sindangan, Inc.–High School

National Highway, Poblacion, Sindangan

7112 Zamboanga del Norte, Region IX

Tel: +63-65-224-2204 Fax: +63-65-224-2710 Email: [email protected]

Editorial Board Fila R. Dagomo Editor in Chief

Donalyn E. Aquino & Judee B. Garsuta Associate Editors

Janine Claire T. Jalosjos & Mara A. S. L. Escoreal Managing Editors

Pamela Mennet V. Llorente News ▪ Reger Ed A. Caperig Feature

William Andrew G. Bulaqueña Literary ▪ Yanessa S. Naval Science

Sidney Rico T. Rebollido Community ▪ Reymund D.U. Jugalbot Sports

Contributors Jasmine Rose A. Castillon ▪ Roxanne B. Dataro ▪ Meryl Aurece

Enriquez ▪ Marchie S. Española ▪ Von Vladimier B. Montayre ▪

Cynthia Kareen J. Nazario ▪ Feldene D. Tan ▪

Rosel Rio R. Tobias ▪ Joelan M. Tongco

Creative Department Reginald C.S. Pondoc & Kevin G. Siasico Photojournalists

Francis Joseph T. Fuertes & Mildred B. Baculpo Cartoonists

Administration Gilbert B. Lamayo, MAELT Technical Advisor

Engr. Leonor A. Labadan, MPA Consultant

Cristina S. Bajalan, MAEd. Principal

Alfreda B. Calamba, Ed.D. Executive Vice President

Opinions expressed in El Obrero are solely those of the writers’

and do not necessarily reflect the views of SJCSI, and do not imply

endorsement thereof.

El Obrero owns the copyright of all contents

of this publication unless otherwise indicated. © 2012 ISSN 2243-8319

El Obrero “Writing is prayer.”

T he Department of Education announced recently

that Pangasinan will host the 2012 Palarong Pam-

bansa.

According to Education

Secretary Armin Luistro, Pangasi-

nan was chosen after a tedious

selection process conducted by

the technical committee.

―In terms of sports facili-

ties, billeting and others, the top

contender for us as discussed in

the group and validated by indi-

vidual scores that each of the de-

liberators gave, we would like to

congratulate the province of Pan-

gasinan for winning the hosting of

Palaro 2012,‖ Luistro said.

Other bidders for the 2012

Palarong Pambansa were Ma-

rikina City and Laguna.

DepEd is set to formalize

the agreement with the province

of Pangasinan through the signing

of a memorandum of agreement to

be scheduled in the next two

weeks and upon the submission of

required documents.

The Palarong Pambansa is

an annual multi-sport event par-

ticipated in by over 10,000 stu-

dent athletes representing various

regions nationwide.

It is a scholastic athletic

competition to promote physical

education and sports as an integral

part of the Basic Education Cur-

riculum and as an affirmation to

the school’s commitment to the

full development of the great po-

tentials of the youth to become

responsible and globally competi-

tive citizens of the nation.

(DepEd Press Release)

C all it a home court advantage, but for the United Sindangan Athletic Association

(USAA) to win the championship back-to-back during the 2011 Palarong Panla-

lawigan was more than the psychological advantage the hosts had as a result of playing

the games in familiar facilities and in front of supportive fans, Dec. 11-16.

8 Events issuu.com/elObrero Special Issue

Oct. 2011–Jan. 2012

The athletic associations

from the elementary and secon-

dary schools of the different mu-

nicipalities of Zamboanga del

Norte converged in Sindangan for

the provincial level elimination of

athletes.

All sports events were

held in the playgrounds of Sindan-

gan Pilot Demonstration School

(SPDS), Sindangan National Ag-

ricultural School (SNAS), Sindan-

gan National High School

(SNHS), and in the municipal

plaza.

Seven high school and four

elementary school teams com-

peted in the different sports.

The delegations came from

the first congressional district,

second congressional district,

third congressional district, the

coastal schools, Liloy team, Po-

lanco team, and the united Sin-

dangan schools.

In the elementary level,

USAA led the result tally with

364.50 points.

The southern, coastal, and

northern schools athletic associa-

tions trailed with 297.50, 212, and

207 points, respectively.

In the secondary level,

USAA topped at 399.50 points.

The coastal schools came

second at 283 points and the sec-

ond district schools third at 199.

The winning athletes will

represent the province in the re-

gional athletic competitions.

The coastal schools athletic

delegation was billeted at Saint

Joseph College of Sindangan, Inc.

high school classrooms.

(Reymund D. U. Jugalbot)

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