Volume I School of Humanities Loyola Schools - Ateneo de

You might also like

Download as pdf
Download as pdf
You are on page 1of 222

ÆGIS07

Volume I
School of Humanities
Loyola Schools - Ateneo de Manila University

Copyright © 2007 by the 2007 Ateneo Ægis


Portraiture by Images by Child’s Play
Cover design by Aaron James Tangoan
Script by Aaron Rufino Palabyab
Photography by Raymond Paul Balite, Marc Dominic Dycaico, Aaron Rufino Palabyab,
Hubert Panchengco, Joseph Rocamora and Alyson Yap
Graphic design by Kimberly Atienza, Michael Bernardo Parker, Julius Anthony Porqueriño,
Audrey Tessa San Agustin, Jed-Angelo Clarence Segovia, and Lady Krystle Tanmantiong

The 2007 Ateneo Ægis is published by Team Ægis for the 2007 graduating class
of the Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Schools.

The copyright of the individual write-ups reverts to their respective authors.


Although they have been edited for style, grammar and brevity,
the sentiments expressed are the sole responsibility of the authors.
They do not necessarily echo the sentiments
of the Ateneo de Manila University
nor those of the 2007 Ateneo Ægis.

No part of the Ateneo Ægis may be reproduced in any matter without permission
from the authors and the 2007 Ateneo Ægis. The 2007 Ateneo Ægis is a publication
produced for scholastic reasons; this production, including text, information, photographs,
and illustrations contained within it, are not produced for direct sales or similar purposes.

Printed and bound by Transprint Corporation in the Republic of the Philippines.


We stand
on a hill
no longer
between earth and sky
But between
what was
and what will be
before we step into
a future of uncertainty,
we remember a past

full of

wonder and

grace
so we can

face tomorrow
full of gratitude and hope
Remember.
school of
humanities
“I wish you three unique From the heart, congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2007!

gifts – Ignatius Loyola’s You graduate at the closing of the Jubilee Year of the First
Companions – St. Ignatius Loyola, St. Francis Xavier, and Blessed
Peter Faber. Each one of them offers a unique gift.
vision of “finding God in
As you leave the Ateneo, I wish you their three unique gifts – Ignatius
all things”, Francis Xavier’s Loyola’s vision of “finding God in all things”, Francis Xavier’s passion
for service, and Peter Faber’s compassion and personal care for
passion for service, and others.

Peter Faber’s compassion We in the School of Humanities exerted our efforts in developing you
to become graduates who are distinguished by academic excellence
and personal care for and service, rooted in our culture yet open to other cultures, creative,
critical, and capable of making lasting commitments. Do come back,
others.” from time to time, to tell us that our efforts have not been in vain!

Do also come back even when you are no longer young but still full
of hope to share and relive with us the happy memories of your life
in Ateneo – to show us you have been loyal to the vision, the passion,
and the compassion of the First Companions!

God bless you always in all your endeavors!

Leovino Ma. Garcia, Ph.D.


DEAN, SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES
contents
14 AB Humanities
24 AB Interdisciplinary Studies
118 AB Literature (English)
144 AB Literature (Filipino)
148 AB Philosophy
166 AB Philosophy: Pre-Divinity Track
172 BFA Creative Writing
192 BFA Information Design
214 BFA Theater Arts
AB Humanities
Agnes Therese
Enriquez Abesamis

Agnes is…
…Playhouse Disney personified!
…extremely talented!
…a big bad wolf, full of lies and deceit! An
outgoing comedian who is always ready to cheer
you up whenever you’re down and who knows how
to comfort a friend in need.
…hot, hot, hot!
…love! She was given a big heart that enables
her to spread love around.
…one of the sweetest girls you’ll ever meet!
…priceless!
…so sexy, Justin brought her back ten times!
…my krash.
…the great barracuda!
…the transcendent!
…my zoul-mate!
…a Viva hot babe!
…the greatest person ever to roam the earth!
…the queen of hearts!
…a superstar!
…an advice column personified!

AB H U MAN IT IES 17
Nadine Paula
Liamzon Bautista

Nadine is like an onion. Her many layers make it


hard to say that you finally know her for who she is.

On the outermost layer is a funny, loud, boisterous,


and scandalous person. She can get along with
anyone, which guarantees that hanging out with her
will never be a dull episode. She is always game
to do anything so long as it’s fun and, preferably,
an adventure. She has a lot of energy that can be
channeled into something great. She is, in short,
dynamic and diverse. She can hang out with any
type of group and still remain an individual.

Beneath all the layers she protects herself with is an


insightful, observant, and sensitive person. She has
been through a lot and has become quite mature
for her age. Only her writing and rare sentimental
moments reveal the wit and wisdom hidden behind
her laughing façade.

As of the moment, she hasn’t decided on what


to do with her life yet; but surely, whatever she
decides to pursue in the future will be a guaranteed
success. The guy who finally measures up to her
will be lucky indeed. It is rare to find a fun person
who can also be loved seriously at the same time.
In a big university such as the Ateneo, it is so hard
to stand out; but with Nadine, it comes naturally.

18 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Catherine Rae
Tomas Espinosa

Espi/Rae is a woman of the arts…if by “arts” you


mean the stick people she draws in her little stories
that often involve amoebas which silence their pet
cockroaches for being “infidels” by eating them
and later dying of indigestion. She loves drawing on
the edges of handouts and books, thereby giving
borrowers of her things little surprises as they begin
to read. It is therefore not peculiar that in the middle
of a discussion on the amygdala, there will be a
jack-o’-lantern waving cheerfully at you while you
flip through the pages of her book.

A certified shoe addict, Espi definitely puts her


shoes to good use as she skillfully runs around the
campus in her heels, confounding both spectators
and the laws of physics. She is also a bringer of
fun and good cheer. She has a knack for calling up
friends just to sing them cheesy power ballads and
likes to scurry in between the bookshelves of the
library à la Jack Sparrow.

But perhaps one of the quirkiest traits of Espi is


her fondness for naming things that are unnamed
and bestowing new names upon those that do. A
person may be christened one name but for Espi
that person might become Mildred, Duckie, or
even Crookshanks; a friend may also be given a
title such as “the Brown-nosing Little Cheeseball”.
It might appear strange to outsiders; but for a
privileged few, everything is taken in stride for they
know that they are, after all, mere subjects of the
Lord of the Cucumbers, Espi.

AB H U MAN IT IES 19
Maria Victoria
Roa Jalbuena

She’ll down a can of soda as early as six in the


morning. She can pull off wearing whimsical and
colorful outfits without a hitch. Her capacity to
remember things people often forget (such as
names, dates, and the overlooked details of an
event) is unmatched. She is a self-proclaimed
nomad who can walk for miles and hours – be it
with purpose or simply for the sake of leisure. She
can survive without a cell phone but is paralyzed
without her planner. She has an unquenchable
sense of wanderlust and adventure and lives for
spontaneity. Talk to her long enough and you’ll
notice that the expression choss has been uttered
at least once. These are just a few of the many
characteristics and quirks that make Mavis the
individual she is.

Not afraid to be an oddball, Mavis isn’t one to


follow the crowd and lives her life marching to the
beat of her own drum. She is independent and very
grounded, with her own set of values, principles,
and morals; she rarely changes her views and
opinions, especially if what is at stake is something
that she is passionate about or something that
is very dear to her. This is not to say that she is
closed-minded though. Mavis enjoys engaging in
conversations about anything and everything – be
it matters that are trivial or serious. A lover of the
humanities, she enjoys taking classes on literature,
history, philosophy, cinema, and fine arts. Go
ahead, befriend the girl wearing a gypsy skirt and
funky glasses – there’s so much more to know.

20 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Andrea Escolin
Katipunan

She likes to pass herself off as poised and simple


but is a full-blown closet weirdo. She obsessively
loves literature, music, and food. She loves to
invent words. She thinks words beginning with the
letter “f” are gay. (Fluffy? Flamingo? Flamboyant?)
She loves her friends who are also weirdos, just like
her. She loves the rain and getting wet in the rain.
She wants to fly and be free. She wants to steal a
book from the library before she graduates. She
wants world peace. She secretly wishes to be a
rock star:

Come on baby, light my fire!


Try to set the night on fire!

She can hardly sing a note in tune though. But who


cares? She’ll travel and teach as rock stars do.
She’ll see the world and scream at the top of her
lungs, “I am a golden god!”

Yes, she’ll laugh and love and live.

AB H U MAN IT IES 21
Justine Laya
Carabuena Paredes

Justine comes with her own background music:


a power ballad from, yes, Meatloaf. Her mug shot,
glossy in tasteful sepia, reads: AB HUM, Milo
analyst, matahum.

Putting her exaggerated drunken spells aside,


she’s a perfectly harmless puso-biting and lechon-
gnawing Cebuana who loves to play football in the
rain and all.

She can name at least five famous Fabio’s in


existence – from the poster boy to the Italian booter.

Justine is a trooper who manages to breeze through


schoolwork with an effortless jig from her hip – a
natural when it comes to snazzy dance moves, as
she confesses to be the muse of Sergio Mendes.

Her passion is traveling – just remind her to stay


away from the gypsies and gelato. And, yes, a free
ticket to Pamplona will warrant you a back rub.

She will do anything for love, but she won’t do that.

22 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


AB Interdisciplinary Studies
Immaculate
Mendoza Ching

Icee navigates through every day with a sense of


confidence about what is right and what is wrong.
Her natural intelligence and street smarts are
overshadowed by her unflinching moral convictions
and deep and honest compassion for others. She
is always there when needed; giving her all to
friends, family, and loved one – unexpectedly or
not. Her wide circle of friends is constantly treated
with her unique brand of warmth and unfailing
thoughtfulness. There’s always a gesture, a card, a
message from her to let you know that she’s there.

Her frankness is equally without fail. She is strongly


opinionated, firmly unswayable on her beliefs, and
fiercely loyal. This makes her an asset to any cause
she devotes herself to and to every life she touches.
She will accompany you on long walks around
campus in fun and sadness, jest and anger. She will
listen, talk, and remember. She will scold, she will
comfort, she will smile. She will be there, through
craziness and embarrassments, as the good,
constant thing in your life.

Always.

36 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Herika Angelica
Reyes Chua

“Softie, but also a toughie” is a phrase that best


describes this campus heartthrob. Oftentimes you’ll
see this gal whining about her misfortunes only to
see that, ironically, her success comes from the
very way she thinks so negatively about things.
This girl might seem to have a soft core but she’s
definitely a soldier deep inside.

This chick can often be seen talking to herself


while walking around campus alone, while guys
admire her from a distance. She may look lost and
in disarray at times but that’s probably because of
the different activities she manages to get herself
into. This girl’s everywhere. Amazingly, she can do
everything all at once – academics and loads and
loads of extracurricular activities, while squeezing in
time for her family and friends in between.

She never forgets to share what she has with others


even when it means sacrificing time for herself.
Her commitment to organizing benefits for cancer
patients stands as a testament to this. Herika’s
natural passion for what she really loves never fails
to astound and inspire me.

She is beauty and brains inside and out, backed up


with a pleasant personality and earnest desire to
achieve more – who wouldn’t want this girl?

Despite everything she has and has achieved, she


never fails to keep both feet on the ground.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 37


Larisse Cuatico Chua

She walks to class in long direct strides, seemingly


oblivious to the interested stares that she gets from
people who notice her pretty chinita features. She
seems aloof and untouchable, but then one gets
flustered as she breaks into a breathtaking smile
upon seeing a familiar face. Her smile hints at a
warm, affectionate character; albeit one that can
also be mischievous and sarcastic.

Magic Sing, koreanovelas, Winnie the Pooh,


romantic comedies, cute guys, basketball games,
everything pink, and anything edible are things
sure to make her happy; while rain showers, pesky
group mates, and unreasonable teachers summon
her acerbic, sharp humor. She can find joy in the
simplest of things and can laugh at the direst of
circumstances – this is the unique gift that she
shares with the people around her.

She works hard and breezes through classes that


others struggle with. Undeniably she is highly
intelligent and definitely capable – but don’t be
fooled. At the same time, she is imbued with a
sensitivity borne out of a deep capacity for feeling
and caring for other people. She is dependent, not
out of necessity, but out of a desire to share and
open herself up to others.

One page, probably even a million, won’t do justice


to the unique person that she is. Just get to know
her…I guarantee a mind-blowing, life-changing
encounter.

38 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Madeleine Therese
Capati Constantino

There is no denying that there is something


more to this woman than physical beauty. She is
extraordinary indeed in more ways than one. A
friend you will have more similarities with than you
can imagine; a daughter you can trust to obey, love
and respect you; and a sister you can count on.
When God poured down height, beauty, brains,
and attitude, Mads was one of the lucky few who
didn’t have an umbrella. Don’t be deceived by the
seemingly regal way she carries herself though. She
may seem intimidating – strutting around campus
with her long, swishy hair and fair, flawless skin – but
she is absolutely crazy and down-to-earth. Think
Ms. Congeniality.

Mads’s humor can spice up any conversation.


Her attraction to adventure drives her to pursue a
variety of things, like mountain climbing, proving
that a “kikay girl” can survive in the wild. If that’s not
enough, she’s also sweet and thoughtful, making
those around her feel special. Mads, a deity, a
goddess in her own right, and yet mortal in her
own little trivialities. Her beauty is something one
encounters only once in a lifetime and yet she is
humble enough to oppose any praise given her.

She is alive with stories of happy affairs, her merry


chortle and childish curiosities leading to long
conversations about nothing (and everything) and
ending in peals of laughter.

What is there not to love about Madeleine? Nothing.


What is there to love? Everything.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 39


Lorenzo Enrique
Diaz Crisostomo

He is a piece right off the chess board: the knight,


the furtive mover, the angled thinker, and the
spearhead of strategies. Woven right out of the
tapestries of Greek battles, Roman conquests, and
English invasions, Enzo harbors the ancient, almost
forgotten and scarcely venerated essences of honor
and valor. We relive true principles with him and
appreciate the core ethics of life. He is a warrior of
this day – in the conquest of truth and in the battle
for love. Where he fights, one absorbs the spirit of
his purpose and is enamored with the queries of his
journey.

Nobody can be more real. He knows himself and


that’s what he projects. Down-to-earth, well-
connected, and yet tied to ethereal notions of
honor, hope and love, Enzo steps to the beat of
his own heart. What it beats to, I imagine, is the
mellow yet strikingly colorful sounds of jazz – a cold
yet feverish tune of tamed hardship and effortless
joy. Who he is then is a man who is capable of
reaching the top by simply being himself, because
in knowing himself he discerns that he can do it. It’s
all a matter of esteem.

Enzo loves listening to different kinds of music,


but he is also a musical artist. He’s a creative
composer, with a style is like no other l have heard
before. He plays the lead guitar for the band Luna
Moth and is often called “the Axe man” or Kenshi,
the legendary samurai. He is my best friend and I
wouldn’t have it any other way.

40 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Ariadne Rosario
Anastasia Josaine
Soriano Cristobal
When the blues whomp you up on the side of the
head/Throw ‘em to the floor and kick ‘em out the
door/When the blues kick you in the head/And you
roll out of bed in the morning/Just sit on the porch
and swing/The heat of the day’s got me in a haze/
Those lazy days of summer are here Just let the
breezes flow,/Through your mind,/I feel so fine.
- The B-52’s, “Dry County”

Its lookin’ like we’re getting there/Over here, comin’


clear/Place that has no rhymes, or times, or crimes/
Just good times/Take me away/To a place where
the good times, good times roll/Don’t let me stay/In
a place where this hate can steal my soul.
- Tommy Lee, “Good Times”

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 41


Jacob Singson Cusi

Jak is everybody’s burst of sunshine. Ever so


perky, thoughtful, sweet, and maniacally innocent,
he can brighten up your day by merely gracing
you with his presence. Problems dissipate into
thin air once you cross paths with this life-sized
happy pill. I have shared most of my problems
with this special creature and he has helped me
through and through. He is more than willing to
put his “giddiness” to a halt just to listen to what’s
bothering me. Without Jak, gloomy clouds would
forever be hovering over my head. Thank God for
my very own sunshine pill!

Malikot…is what his friends call him.


Malambing…is how most girls find him.
Humble…is how people who know him see him.
Lapitin…is what he is towards those in between.
The World…is what I think of him.

Gentlemanly. Protective. Kind. Steady. Fun. Funny.


Charming. Captivating. Supportive. Sincere…And
so much more. He will surely make anyone go crazy
over him.

Sometimes he thinks he’s lost, confused, and the


unluckiest person in the world, but I don’t know
how he can possibly think this because he is such
a blessing to his family, a real joy to his friends, and
God’s gift to me.

Patience, dear Jak, you’ll be two steps ahead. Your


possibilities are endless, opportunities, countless.

42 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Ritzmond Adaza David

Tzi Tzi is a name that means a host of different


things in other languages. But in the land of Ateneo,
Tzi Tzi is synonymous to constancy – something so
unwavering, one need not know him to know that
table in the caf where he sits every morning and
calmly, like a samurai, begins his day.

Although his short, stocky frame and trademark


facial hair may be the defining characteristics that
people will remember him by and that Company
B will never get to show off, it is his witty sarcasm
and cynicism that sets him apart from everyone.
Strange as it may sound, his hilarious disdain for
the world and the people in it is the very source of
his charm. However, one need not worry, for even
though his sense of humor may be dark, his heart
certainly is not.

Few people have the capacity to match the


intensity and dedication that Tzi Tzi devotes to his
work. He is goal-oriented, focused, and passionate
in everything that he does. Whether it be an English
paper for a raccoon, taking a picture of a friend,
or playing a card game, he gives the same special
care and attention to all the little details as he would
a masterpiece.

Amazingly, when it comes to friendship, he’s able


to care and love even more. Easily one of the most
compassionate people around, Tzi tries to hide
the extreme hopeless romantic in him because it
opposes the cynic within, but that’s what makes
being with Tzi such an adventure.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 43


Jefferson Viray
de Guzman

Jeff’s got it all – looks, brains, and humor. Add


his spectacular basketball skills and you get one
hell of a guy. He is “multi-talented” – an excellent
athlete, an outstanding student, a card shark, a
witty comedian – he’s great at everything. Despite
these, Jeff is a very humble person. Don’t let his
intimidating appearance deceive you for underneath
all that machismo is a really nice guy. A glimpse of
Jeff’s hand will give you an idea of how big his heart
is. Every pump fuels his drive and determination to
accomplish anything he sets his mind to.

A day with Jeff is incomplete without his infectious


humor and laughter. The warmness of his presence
is openly welcomed by the people around him.
He loves to spend time with his friends and joke
about anything under the sun. The fun surely never
stops whenever he’s around. Jeff is a true friend, a
bona fide Berch boy. However, he can also be very
serious when it comes to schoolwork. A fearless
competitor, he always brings his “A” game, whether
he’s on the court or in the classroom. A leader on
and off the court, Jeff makes everyone around him
feel at ease and comfortable.

Jeff’s defining moments are best witnessed when


one engages in deep conversation with him. A lot
of ideas, some amusing, come out of him and you
realize that he’s a genuinely conservative guy. His
wit is striking; his practicality is admirable; but most
of all, his passion is genuine. Whatever challenges
and obstacles lie ahead, Jeff will surely be able to
triumph over them with flying colors.

44 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Anne Kyna
Serviano de Villa

This one is hard to handle. You will hate her.

She’ll call you when she’s nervous for an exam,


drag you for company with the most unusual
troubles, and send you a text message in the
middle of the night and ask you to call her.

Anne is definitely one of the most easily


remembered students in the batch – that is, if we
take her ID number into account. Her ID number
033333 is definitely a conversation starter – not that
she needs any help in talking to people because
she is the type of person that others can easily
have great conversations with. If she were born
a guy, people would call her a true blue-blooded
Atenean. Her school spirit is evident in her never-
ending support for everything Ateneo – events
and basketball teams among others. You could
always expect her to be in the crowd, cheering her
heart out during basketball games – for men’s and
women’s teams alike.

Despite her apparent worldliness, Anne is a simple


lady at heart. Sweetly innocent, she never runs out
of time for her family and friends. She’ll give you
a hug when you need it and do it spontaneously
so that you’ll be pleasantly surprised. She also
has a knack for perceiving people’s needs and is
equipped with the skills to respond to them.

Now, do you hate her? I didn’t think so.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 45


Michel Dominique
Jacinto del Carmen

You know how in movies there’s always that perfect


song playing in the background while the ever-so-
dashing protagonist is deep in thought, or as he
practices his karate moves in a movie montage, or
as he sweeps the girl of his dreams off her feet?
Well, that’s how it is every waking moment in Nikki’s
head. It’s practically impossible not to think of Nikki
in relation to his music. Anything from the Beatles,
to Chicago, to some obscure German song about
God-knows-what, you can be sure that Nikki’s got
it stowed away either in his hard drive or in the
ever-reliable jukebox inside of his head. I should
know for he’s introduced me to many peculiar and
obscure songs – songs that I never thought I’d get
to hear (or enjoy) in my lifetime.

But that is, perhaps more than anything, what


encapsulates who Nikki is and what he does. With
Nikki, you should never expect just the formulaic,
the run-of-the-mill, the ordinary, the everyday.
After all, this is the guy who’ll flirt unabashedly
with band managers and freshmen alike; who’ll
cram an entire marketing proposal (from strategy
to implementation) in one night, and pull it off; and
who’ll apply to MI-6 online just because and leave
it simply at that. Some would call what he does
madness, but I beg to differ. You see, what Nikki
does, and does better than many of us will ever
learn to do, is live – that is, balls-out, hair-blowing-
in-the-wind, both-arms-raised living – and for that, I
count myself lucky to be his friend.

Here’s lookin’ at you, kid. Cheers.

46 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Kristine Wong
dela Cruz

According to survey respondents, these are the


following descriptions that come to mind when
asked about Deecee:

Fun drinking buddy * coffee addict * small eyes,


big smile * cocktail connoisseur * independent *
speaks her mind * expert crammer * athletically-
inclined * god-fearing * closet MYMP fan * good
ate * hates waiting * big, big bully * loves cooking *
“critic” * dependable (most of the time) * protective
friend * compulsive buyer/eater/drinker * simple,
unpretentious * clean-toes freak * bum * “partial” to
freshies * shot glass collector * kuripot! * mababaw
ang kaligayahan * crybaby * great block mate

Based on the findings above, the researchers


conclude that Deecee is a uniquely special
specimen bound to give everyone a memorable and
fun-filled experience of friendship.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 47


Conrado Gerardo
Rene Limcaoco Diaz II

Hey, how have you been? Are you happy?

Remember pulling all-nighters as you crammed


for tests? Remember feeling so tired, bleary-eyed,
pissed off, and looking longingly at your bed? They
said that you’d miss this later on in life. (Do you?)
Remember those wild parties at your house and
the memories (good and bad) that you woke up
to the next day? Remember that time in Mt. Pulag
with the Loyola Mountaineers when you walked
not amongst the clouds but above them? Or the
weeks with the “bench” in Tali and Tagaytay? And
being a Griffin – we never won a single game, but it
was great fun anyway? Remember that day when
you cut all your classes to spend eight hours at the
“bench” and you knew at that moment that you
were amongst family? Remember that oatmeal
gunk you brought to school everyday for two
years? Remember love and lazy afternoons, rolling
around, being useless and savoring every second?
Remember your dreams of going to Africa, surfing,
trying exotic cuisines, climbing the highest peaks,
diving the most pristine waters, and, of course,
marrying the love of your life?

Never compromise these things for they represent


who you are. Remember the Philosophy of Chill,
to see the big picture, to keep in mind what is
important, and to never get caught up in the details.
Remember me.

Take care always, pare,


You, a moment ago

48 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Christopher
Brackett Esguerra

Christopher B. Esguerra actually prefers to


be addressed as Chito. The name may sound
simple, comic, slang, or plain – things that he
thinks accurately describes himself. Growing up
among his peers introduced him to many different
things – sports, books, alcohol, music…and the
list goes on. His obsession for video games and
cartoons has left a lasting impression on his future
goals and ambitions. When he experienced his first
comic book, everything simply felt like it should.

Chito has been a part of the Ateneo community


since his elementary years. He graduated grade
school as a member of 7-Xavier. In high school, he
was one of the K-boys, a mixed group of talented
people that he would always remember as his first
family in the Ateneo. The university put him in the
Interdisciplinary Studies course, under block D1.

There is not much to say about Chito, being the shy


and passive character that he is. Teachers would
say that he sleeps in class too much. Girls think his
mischievously green sense of humor is disgusting.
The guys think it’s cool. His friends enjoy his
company. Good friends like drinking beer with him;
the close ones find comfort in his advice.

Chito appreciates a more morbid feel to art. His


exposure to comic books has inspired him to
pursue his own original style in the field. Years from
now, he can see himself as a professional graphic
artist, behind his drawing desk and sketching
creations of his own.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 49


Jurgen Tamayao
Estanislao

Standing six feet and five inches tall, it would be


hard not to spot him even in a hallway full of busy
students. Jurgen is a philosophical thinker, a multi-
faceted artist, and a spirited basketball player. Yet
despite his many talents, he never lets arrogance
get the better of him and maintains an attitude of
sincere humility despite the potential magnitude of
his capability – a reflection of how down-to-earth he
truly is despite his intimidating presence.

Surprisingly enough, he does not seem to fit into


any usual category – in fact, he is quite a paradox.
Tall yet small. Athletic yet intellectual and artistic.
Similar to the day he changed a Philosophy
professor’s view of athletes, it is certain that he is
to make great changes in the minds and lives of
many. Indeed, like an uncarved block of wood that
embodies humility and simplicity, he exemplifies the
gravity of his own potentiality.

50 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Jomar Felix Fajardo

So what do other people have to say about Jomar?

M BOYS: Ge: guwapo, macho kaso bading!;


Pao: Siyempre pa! Tantananan! Umhmmm!; JR:
Loko pero hindi papaloko!; Mart: truthful, comic,
persevering; Dean: Lifetime member of the sando
and mango gangs.

THE FAMILY: Ate Mayye: my baby bro, kuripot,


moody; Nephews Nathan and Elmier: he’s a guy,
loves us, we like to sleep while he drives the car.

THE BENCH: Chuck: makulit, masaya, pwede ring


iresponsable; Cheeno: bastos, cariñoso, bolero;
Kiko: maaasahan kaso hindi rin; Pusta: bombastic,
chillax, bred.

THE BLOCK: Mats: macho, gwapo, caring; Nez:


creative, loko-loko, good singer; Cams: quirky,
madating, mabango; Chel: kamukha si Humpty
Dumpty; May: laugh-trip, loveable, wholesome!;
PJ: mabilis na dribbler pero sablay na shooter;
Danie: suave, mysterious, agreeable; Gino: shining,
shimmering, splendid; Juju: ako ang batas.

Yes, he can be unrelentingly impish but that’s what


keeps his truest friends and loved ones indisputably
enamored. His charm enables him to get away
with practically anything. On the flip side, Jomar is
incredibly dedicated. Music and photography fuel
his ambitions and with his passion and strength of
mind, there is no stopping him from realizing his
aspirations. He will undoubtedly make it. Big.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 51


Clarissa Bettina
Filamor Faylona

Reese is sweeter than her peanut butter chocolate


namesake. She is one girl who can brighten up your
day with her mix of tough yet sweet conversations
and simple hello’s. Like the saccharine outer cup of
the candy, she can make you high on endorphins,
just by being right by your side.

However, Reese’s cool outer shell can also get


soft and mushy, revealing what she really is on
the inside – soft, velvety and warm. Unlike ordinary
candy left out in the open air, she does get soft and
eventually melt. But the beauty about Reese is that
even if she softens, one thing remains constant:
her sweetness. Her kind, caring personality never
fades, whether you meet her as the calm, cool, and
collected one or the soft and mushy girl.

A chockfull of greatness, there is a lot of Reese


to go around. She shares herself to the noblest of
causes and shares every single ounce of herself to
everyone, always offering to be of service.

Reese: a truly awesome girl, always delectable in


her chocolate caring and peanut-butter passion.

52 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Trisha Isabelle
Fernandez Fernandez

It could have been anywhere and it may have


happened anytime, but there was that point right
between extreme boredom and total giddiness
when you somehow looked up and saw her. Is
there even such a thing as a telling place or time?
There is none. Trish seems to be everywhere all at
once, her nature quite closely comparable to the
omnipresence of a higher being.

That may be an exaggeration. But if you knew her,


you wouldn’t hesitate to agree. She flits about like
there’s no tomorrow, slings a good, solid arm over
anyone who needs it, matches wits with people
from all walks of life, and manages to maintain that
beguiling charm. All this despite the stress and
turmoil of whatever negative energy pulls her down.

Her intellect is versatile – ranging between the


critically philosophical to the downright absurd. Her
eyes reflect a world of views, ideologies, dreams,
and achievements. Her youthful energy is more than
enough to propel her goals to their destined targets.

Maybe you’ve never met her, but I highly doubt that.


And if you have, you’re one of the many who now
nod along in agreement. You could be attracted,
curious, perhaps, even slightly afraid. But that just
goes to show neutrality isn’t possible with Trish.

She isn’t just anyone, she isn’t ordinary. To the


people who see through her and know her most,
she’s anything but.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 53


Juan Enrique
Rodriguez Flojo

If anyone personified the word smooth, it would


be Niki Flojo. “Flo” is the Filipino Pharrell. In fact,
Niki idolizes Pharrell, N.E.R.D’s producer/rapper/
entertainer-extraordinaire and they share some
similar qualities. Both are confident, intelligent,
and multi-talented. Both manage and perform in a
band as well. Both are also predators who share the
same dangerously sweet tongue.

Niki has the uncanny ability of relating easily and


talking to people from all walks of life – may it be a
jeepney driver or a college girl. It’s because of his
excellence and enthusiasm in speaking to the latter
that he is often misunderstood and reputed to be
a bolero, flirt, and babaero. However, if Niki were
guilty of anything, it would be for being the kind of
man who appreciates women. He’s a great listener
for he is very sincere.

Wit comes naturally to this aspiring model who


actually has more depth than most people give him
credit for. His close relationship with God guides
him in making sound decisions.

Literally meaning “weak” in Spanish, Flojo defies


how his name defines him. His ability to center
himself while juggling a ridiculous number of
commitments is testament to this fact. What’s even
more amazing is how Niki always makes the time to
hang out with friends despite his busy schedule.

Niki is truly a rare find. He’ll forever spice up your


life with the simple saying of “Yezzir!”.

54 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Omar Mirabueno
Gabito

Hindi matatawaran ang kabutihang loob ni Omar.


Lagi siyang may handang tulong kapag ika’y may
pakiusap. Isang kaibigang masarap kasama sa
asaran at sa pagtambay sa PubRoom, maaaring
makipagkuwentuhan kay Omar sa maraming
bagay – sa mga usaping pulitikal, sosyal, at kahit
na nakatutuwa. Bukod dito, propesyunal din siya
lalo na sa mga gawaing pang-organisasyon. Isang
mahusay na kasapi ng Bagwisan ng Sining sa
Matanglawin, binibigay niya ang buong puso at
ginagawa ang lahat ng makakaya upang lubos
na mapahusay ang mga dibuhong inilalagay sa
magasin.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 55


Ginno Paulo
Beltran Gonzales

With this quiet, brooding boy-next-door lingering


around the Ateneo corridors, it is impossible
to miss Gio in a sea of glowing and vibrant
personalities ubiquitously spotted around campus.
Innately gifted in the art of drawing, Gio can
draw in a flash; with lightning speed, he is able to
complete his sketches, portraits, and caricatures
with unquestionable artistic precision. No one
knows where this suberb ability was sourced. A
mystery to all, Gio’s drawing potential is akin to an
invisible force. It is difficult to pinpoint its source
and magnitude, but its strong presence is there.
Armed with his blunt supplies and scratch, expect
Gio to bring life into any drawing. With a history of
otherworldly escapades, intense drama, and a twist
of worldly dementia, any drawing by Gio will surely
speak an infinity of words.

Gio is a true Atenean with his outstanding valor


and compassionate soul. His Ateneo-acquired
knowledge, desire for originality, and lack of
vanity enable him to be the perfect gentleman.
Despite the calm exterior, his drawings reflect a
vision of glorified humanity and credibly depict the
predicaments of the awkward youth. That he allows
us to peek into his creative world simply shows
that Gio is not only a master of his art, but also an
enigmatic individual who truly embodies what it
means to be a blue-blooded Atenean.

56 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Georgina Ann
Herrero Hernandez

The sky is clear tonight – 


a perfect time to look up at Him.
I know that if I stretch out my hands high enough,
He will reach out and do the same.
There is something in me
that is overflowing with joy,
And no matter where I go or whom I meet,
I only feel this joy.
The world is so vast yet I have embraced it,
And it has embraced me as well.
I think the sun is rising now – 
a perfect time to walk with Him.
I know that if I stay close by,
Everything will be just fine.
The day is just beginning
And already I’ve learned to let go.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 57


Maria Corazon
Rivera Hernandez

Butterflies. Mirror. Sequins. Doodles. These


are a few words related to Ms. Maria Corazon
Hernandez. But there is something more to her
than these details. Cori exhibits a serene and
candid persona. Her face emulates an untarnished
soul and glistens with unadulterated innocence.
She keeps within her an insatiable essence, an
inquisitive nature that desires to know more and
questions matters that she is oblivious of. Her
beauty lies in the alluring personality that sparkles
in the crowd, the exotic charm that entices only the
hearts of distinguished gentlemen as no ordinary
man can see beyond her soulful eyes.

This young lady has a million and one stories to


tell and every single one is worth listening to. She
reiterates that “steady dating is tantamount to
social suicide,” quoting from her Th131 professor.
She delights in her singlehood and makes the
most out of it. She indulges in life’s simple
pleasures – books with fairytale endings, tear-jerker
movies, and never-ending phone conversations
with friends.

Like most college students, she ends up cramming


her papers and other school projects but she
somehow still manages to finish with fairly gratifying
marks. Her strength lies in her probing character
which is matched by a seemingly ceaseless
optimism. She may be silent most of the time,
but inside her lies an abstract and unpredictable
lady with a strong will and dignity. Undeniably, this
damsel is an embodiment of true beauty.

58 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Luis Enrico
La’O Hernando

I can easily say that Luis or Nando is one of the


closest friends a person can have. I remember the
hours we’d spend complaining about everyday life,
telling jokes and laughing at the most shallow of
things. He’s the type of guy who’d be perfect for
a Mentos commercial, with his laidback attitude,
trademark smile, and a figurative thumbs up that
tells you there’s nothing he can’t handle. And after
all the years I’ve spent with him, I must say that
there is little that he can’t do.

He lives his life with music playing in the


background. With earphones plugged into his
ears, it’s hard not to stop and take notice of what
wonders could be brewing in his head. “He’s got
wits, he’s got looks, he’s got passion.” He can can
make anyone laugh effortlessly with his excellent
wit. He may seem indifferent but he’s one of the
nicest and most dependable guys one will ever
meet. He’s strong-willed, strong-hearted, and
strong-minded. He’s the guy who people want with
them when everything goes wrong, because they
know that he’ll stick with them until the very end.
That’s how good a friend he is.

As the song “Wake Up” by Arcade Fire goes,


“With my lightnin’ bolts a glowin’ I can see where
I’m goin’ to be when the reaper he reaches and
touches my hand…” Nando lives freely. He lives life
on the wild side, speeding past everything in his
path, making sure that he lives his life one day at a
time, making sure not to miss a second.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 59


Justin Ross
Limtong Huang

Justin is the kind of guy whom you cannot help but


instantly like. He’s quite a character and quite the
entertainer. However, he is more than what people
make him out to be, more than just the class clown.
Justin is someone you can talk to about things that
really matter – like the weather! Kidding aside, he
gives the best advice when you least expect it.

One thing that people will probably remember
about him is his love for the game. He loves
basketball so much that it’s probably part of his
DNA (and it most likely is). As soon as he enters the
court, he becomes a whole different person.

When God threw into the world different skills


and talents for us to have, Justin caught the gift
of basketball but missed the gift of dance. He
was born with two left feet, but his determination
to actually execute some serious dance moves
more than compensates for his inability to actually
perform them.

Michael Jordan once said, “I’ve missed more than


9,000 shots in my career. I’ve been trusted to take
the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over
and over and over again in my life. And that is why
I succeed.” That is exactly how Justin is – he learns
from his mistakes and is not easily discouraged.
That is precisely how he’ll learn to do the dance
steps he so dreams of executing – through sheer
determination and passion.

60 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Kristel Sy Ko

Patient Number:
033465

Diagnosis:
Patient is found to have Acute Walking
Contradiction Syndrome.

Symptoms:
Patient manifests gullible skepticism, vague
certainty, expressive introversion, random
consistency, and violent pacifism. This is also found
in conjunction with other simple complications,
namely: advanced cramming, being an independent
brat, and being a focused multi-tasker. Symptoms
are all in line with diagnosis above.

Treatment:
Administer regular amounts of DVD’s, preferably
at least twice a month. Monitor patient’s movie-
substance intake to prevent recurrent spending
fits. Regular exposure to Internet and cable TV
is recommended to reduce erratic mood swings
(ensure moderate exposure as excesses may
induce a catatonic state). Avoid recurring elements
as it may trigger explosive bouts of irritability and
sarcasm. If exposed, immediately isolate (leave
patient to fume) and deliver element source to
nearest paramedic.

Patient Status:
Still under observation.

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 61


Robert Kevin
Cruz Lachica

Perceived to be happy-go-lucky, humorous, down-


to-earth, and outgoing, Kevin is best described by
one word: grand. Indeed, there’s more to him than
meets the eye.

Once you get to know him, you’ll see that Kevin


is someone whom you can learn a lot from. He
is responsible and dedicated – whether it be for
school, organizations, family, golf, or friends. In
everything he does, his passion drives him to
always be the best that he can be. He is a visionary.
Ambitious and detail-oriented, he knows what he
wants and he won’t let anything keep him away
from it. Kevin is also honest to others and honest
to himself. He cares deeply for his family and for
everyone close to his heart. His friends can attest
that having Kevin as a friend means always having
him watch your back and never having a boring
moment. As he makes his way to newer heights,
expect a lot of great things from him. An amazing
guy with an amazing heart: Kevin Lachica.

62 T H E 2007 AT EN EO ÆGIS
Zion Cesar
Knight Laterre

Blue Eagle #21 lives and breathes basketball. A


thinking hustler inside the paint, the Laterreminator
makes rebounding and blocking seem easy with his
kangaroo-esque leaps and jumps.

Growing up in the Outback and being blessed with


good genes (thanks to his Australian-Jamaican
lineage), he excels in sports and considers the
beach his second home. Off-court, he is a gadget
freak, a nature-lover, and a one-woman man for
Karla. An advocate of healthy living, he steers
clear of junk food and vice – although he is human
enough to cheat occasionally with pounds of
chocolates. Despite his towering height, Mt. Zion
is the epitome of humility and benevolence. With
his amiable gaze, he gives face to cliché adjectives
such as kind, polite, generous, and pleasant – a
bona fide Mr. Nice Guy. Yet his introverted
disposition hides a brilliant workhorse who firmly
disbelieves in succumbing to limitations. His focus
and determination to succeed is guided by his
mantra: “What Zion wants, Zion gets.”

Surprisingly, this Ozzy mate has a few bizarre and


wacky antics up his sleeve. Spend a few minutes
with him and he’ll entertain you with his aboriginal
dance. Hand him anything tasty and he’ll smell
it first before putting it in his mouth. Give him
Filipino food and he’ll put catsup on it. Plus, he’s
ambidextrous to boot! He plays pool with his left
hand, plays the guitar with his right, kicks a football
with his left foot, and jumps off the other. Truly, Zi is
horras (oh, that’s “crazy” in Zionese).

AB IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 63


Gretchen
Nacario Laurel

Paradoxical si Chen, Cheness, Gretch, o


Greta. Paradox. Ibig sabihin sabog, malabo,
mahirap maintindihan, lampas sa anumang
pagpapakahulugan. Intimidating, ang hirap
lapitan…yun pala isa sa pinakamabait na taong
makikilala mo. Ang sungit tingnan – war face kasi;
pero, iyakin naman, sensitive, sobrang maawain,
at overwhelmingly sweet…lagi tuloy nabibiktima
ng mga bata at pusa sa Katipunan. Responsible,
siya yung favorite group mate nang lahat nga tao
pero takaw-tulog at may katamaran din. Mahilig
sa “labas” (windang alert) pero she knows when
to go back to business. Matalino sana, insightful,
at kakaiba mag-isip; yun nga lang, walang sense
of direction. After four years, nawawala pa rin sa
Ateneo. Fashionista, magaling manamit, suki kasi
ng ukay-ukay. Maganda, Filipina beauty nga eh, yun
lang, ang tingin sa sarili “average” at “nothing out
of the ordinary.” Masarap kausap at may sense of
humor, pero madalas spaced out at nawawala na
pala sa conversation niyo. Makakalimutin, parang
may Alzheimer’s…pero hindi niya kinakalimutan
kapag may minahal na siya. Madami nang
napagdaanan, pero optimist pa rin at feeling
niya may pag-asa pa rin. Mature at selfless kung
mag-isip, pero hindi pa rin nawawala ang inner (at
medyo autistic) child within. Basta, magulo siya.
Hindi talaga maikakahon. Pero siguro yung pinaka-
ugali niya: totoo siya. Totoo siyang kaibigan kasi
lahat kayang intindihin para sa iyo; totoo siyang
magmahal kasi hindi niya kailangan ng dahilan at
totoo siyang tao kasi lahat kaya niyang pagdaanan
at pagtagumpayan. Tapos.

64 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Christine
Diasanta Lechuga

Emcie is a woman with an all-embracing, liberal


way of thinking in almost everything in life. She
is a person who is not scared of voicing out her
opinions. She can be very articulate especially
when it comes to political issues. She sticks to her
beliefs – a trait which makes people say, “Man, I
wish I had strong willpower like her.” Emcie is also
mesmerizing as she is innocent yet very much
mature. She takes pleasure in even the smallest
things like diet sodas, coffee, and good music.

When it comes to her sensitive side, Emcie is one of


those people who inspires you to keep doing what
you want to do and motivates you when you’re at
your lowest moments. She can definitely captivate
one’s soul by being a glimmer of light to everyone.
Her perceptiveness comes with sympathy. She’s a
good listener and can tolerate a friend’s rants and
raves without complaint. Her extrovert personality
makes her very much affable and convivial as seen
in her innumerable devoted friends.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 65


Valerie Ann Ang Lee

Hear that funny laugh? No doubt about it, that’s


Val! Don’t be fooled by the seemingly shy and
reserved façade that Val portrays. Once you get
to know her, she has a lot to say, especially when
the conversation is about dogs, shopping, or the
various things she sells. She sells everything from
soaps and laptops to bags and stuffed toys. Two
things she certainly won’t sell are her spoiled dogs,
Ritter and Bo. Unlike others, Val’s camera contains
only a few pictures of people because she prefers
taking pictures of her dogs in cute poses.

There is no one more persistent and hardworking


than this girl, which is why we wouldn’t be
surprised to see her succeed not only with her
online businesses but also in her other prospective
careers. If you’re low on cash, just look for Val – she
might not be able to lend you the money, but
she’ll be sure to give you useful advice on how to
earn extra cash. She may earn a lot through her
online store, but she also spends a lot on her own
shopping as well!

Val keeps friends sane, focused, and calm


whenever stressful moments arise. Her poised
laughter and witty remarks constantly make
conversations with her very interesting. Val is also
multi-talented – gifted with the ability to draw, to
create designs using her computer, and to manage
being a thriving entrepreneur while still in school.
There’s certainly more to her than meets the eye.

66 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Rosalina dela
Cruz Leonardo

Well, we can say that Naine is someone you can


count on. Pardon the corny joke. But, really, she is
someone you can count on – to be so dedicated to
what she loves and believes in that she can fight
for it until it hurts; to spontaneously go off with
you when you need company or to be there for
you when you need a sisterly shoulder to cry on
(or with); to deliver talent (whether in song, dance,
or theater) packed in a slim, fair, beautiful, chinita
package; and to burst into baby talk when she
comes across babies. Through these, Naine exudes
passion.

She has great dedication to art, friendship, family,


being with children, and shopping. Her passion has
kept her committed to one organization, of which
she has been an officer throughout her college
life. Love for the performing arts determined her
college track and led her to guide young students
as a choreographer and moderator. Her fondness
for kids has led her to pursue teaching, and yes,
coo at babies upon seeing them. Her love for
shopping drives her to buy more clothes even when
she hasn’t had a chance yet to wear all that she’d
bought on a previous spree.

With all these, let’s just say that the people whom
Naine loves are blessed to know someone so
devoted.

I guess we can’t go wrong with a lucky number.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 67


Khervin John
Capol Leopoldo

Khervin, like his name, is anything but ordinary. He


may seem like a siga rocker who’s all about jokes,
crazy antics, and the good life, but he’s really a
big, warm, gooey marshmallow. He is sincere,
thoughtful, and appreciative. Unlike other guys
nowadays, he isn’t afraid to show his sensitive side.

This music lover has a trademark jumping rope


dance move that can adjust to any kind of
music – may it be to the sounds of Metallica, Bob
Marley, or whatever his mood dictates. He’s friendly
and has a certain aura about him that makes the
people he meets for the first time immediately
comfortable with him. Always a gentleman or,
more aptly, a knight in shining armor dressed in
his usual garb of earring, trucker cap, Quicksilver
shirt, and chucks, he never fails to be there for his
friends whenever they need him – whether it be as
simple as walking a friend to class or as dangerous
as trekking the overpass with a liter of gas. He’s
daring, brave, and loves adventure. His strength
and composure enable him to face even the most
life-threatening situations unflinchingly. From
high-speed drives to torrential waves, he always
manages to come out unfazed, still ready to have a
good time with his great sense of humor intact. It’s
as though he has a constant natural high that keeps
him going.

Like the music he plays, Khervin’s personality and


boundless energy definitely make him stand out. He
is, without a doubt, a person worth meeting and a
friend worth keeping. Khervin At You Can!
68 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS
Vittorio Paolo
Panlilio Lim

You can look at “good” in countless ways. There’s


“good strategist”, “good team player”, a guy who
can give you a “good time” – all of which can be
attributed to the personality of VP Lim. There’s
something so fluid about the guy. He possesses a
natural ability to charm and an intrinsic capability
to convince anyone anywhere at any time to leave
their inhibitions at the door and simply have a
good – no, great – time!

The thing that no one really realizes, or rather


expresses, is that the guy is more “excellent” than
“good” or even “great”. His excellence can be
found in the way he recognizes the utility in people
and what each of them can offer along with all their
follies and foibles. He has no qualms about putting
himself out there and doing what it takes to get
what he wants. Through these strengths, he can
actualize the numerous goals and vocations that
are simply waiting to be conquered. Don’t let his
laidback attitude fool you for this is one guy with
big ambitions. And when you’re a good guy that
everyone likes, you’re set to endure.

Just like Vincent Chase in Entourage and Tom


Cruise in Vanilla Sky, this guy dreams of “living the
dream.” He’ll probably get to do so too. Want to
know why? Because in this world, good guys need
a break too.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 69


Maria Pia Angela
Marquez Lizares

To say that Pia is one of a kind would be an


understatement. For one, only a few people can
eat like a horse yet manage to stay as slim as her.
Second, there are even fewer people who can
commute and run around in stiletto heels. With Pia,
you can never be sure, for appearances can truly
be deceiving. One thing you can be certain of is
that her wit can be as sharp as her heels. Pia is not
afraid to speak her mind and make you know the
real deal. Don’t be intimidated, however. Friendly,
approachable, and a very good listener, she never
fails to give friends logical and objective advice
whenever they talk to her about their problems.

Despite her deceptively waiflike figure, Pia has


the power to make men’s knees weak. The fierce
walk, serious facial expression, and highly arched
brows can make her come off as too strong.
Don’t be deceived by her glamour girl demeanor,
however. Behind the made-up face and shiny hair
lie substantial depth. Nothing piques her interest
better than a healthy intellectual exchange over a
steaming cup of Starbucks coffee. You can always
find her debating, reasoning, and rationalizing many
things, especially when Psychology is involved.

Glamorous yet low-maintenance, serious yet fun,


intimidating yet approachable – sometimes, what
you see isn’t really what you get.

70 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Trisha Marie Ang
Llanos Dee

Most Ateneans hate Accounting because its


complex problems require a lot of analysis and a
substantial amount of one’s time. However, there
are a few students who actually love the subject
and this girl is part of this small group of Ateneans!
In fact, because of her passion for it, she took an
additional class even though she was not required
to take it anymore. (Now that’s what you call
Accounting nerdiness at its finest!) But besides this
peculiar fondness for the subject, Ging-Ging is a
typical Atenean college student who loves having
her own “me” time and hanging out with close
friends (winks)!

What makes this girl special is her passion to


serve the Ateneo community and even the greater
Filipino society. She has become a pillar of social
awareness campaigns in the Loyola Schools.
Her strong convictions inspires others to follow
what she wants to do and what she wants to
make happen. But Ging-Ging will not be Ging-
Ging without talking about how she is as a friend.
Although she is often misunderstood by others as
snobbish, she’s actually a very sweet and caring
person. She never neglects to take care of her
friends by texting them and messaging them on YM
to see if her they’re doing okay and would even do
things she’s not used to doing just to help them out!

Ging-Ging = an accounting nerd + passionate


social activist + a sweet and loyal friend

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 71


Mikhail Mahatma Llorin

Colossal.

Yes, this word may come to mind once you set your
eyes on Mikey. Whether or not you’re part of his
circle of friends, you are bound to hear this word
said about him more than once in your life. He does
tower over almost everyone else, after all, and his
well-known-to-friends bear hugs make you feel
unusually tiny and helpless. He has a laugh that can
be heard houses away and a shout that can silence
even a mosh pit gone wild. But really, one has to go
beyond what can be seen to understand what this
man is really made of.

There is never a dull moment with Mikey. Your


conversations can range from intelligent and
stimulating to mundane and trivial. Times spent with
him will lead one to the realization that he clearly is
spontaneity personified. Despite his free-spirited
tendencies, however, he manages to keep his feet
firmly planted on the ground. He has a solid grasp
of reality which enables him to stay responsible
and driven. He is a man of great humility, power,
and potential. Never one to sacrifice his convictions
for what is easy, Mikey carries a strength in his
character that not everyone can own to.

72 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jeffrey Mark
Salonga Lucas

He will walk his walk and talk his talk. This is how
Mr. Jeff Lucas – a serenader, a subtle charmer, a
practical preacher, a compassionate brother – in his
own terms, “strolls”. He is a bona fide dreamer and
contemplates or, to some extent, experiences the
“what if’s” in life. Still, he has dedication and loyalty
written all over his body and soul, especially in his
faith, his love, and his music.

Jeff creates music. Jeff loves music. Jeff is music.


This “poppa” is a living, breathing, singing steady-
lang type of guy. Armed with his passion for music,
he permeates the music scene with his original
chillax-rock genre born from his zeal and delight in
creating smooth riffs and melodious rhythms. Jeff
surfs where music flows.

Jeff created strolling. Jeff loves strolling. Jeff is a


stroller. This buddy of many is a pa-stroll-stroll-lang
type of guy! He is “Hakuna Matata” in the flesh! You
won’t catch him panicking over papers or dreading
exams for he is always cool and composed. He is a
master at rocking a night gig, doing a twenty-page
paper, then taking an exam the next day! He knows
how to kick it off on weekends and how to get
down to school business on Monday mornings!

Jeff is one of the coolest friends you could ever


have. A Christian rocker who’s quick to comfort,
slow to judge, always ready to help, and even
readier to sing. A friend who, in good times or bad,
is there waiting with his trusty old guitar to lighten
up your mood with one of ‘em 3DaySilence tunes.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 73


Kristine Camille
Tamani Lui

Camille or Camsie to most of her friends is a


composed and peaceful individual. Her visage
reflects an exceedingly innocent spirit, radiating
an aura of internal beauty waiting to surface.
She is very soft-spoken and reserved; yet when
she speaks, her lips utter the thoughts of a
philosophical mind that would surely move all those
who hear.

This young lady is full of surprises. She can be a


delicate woman one minute then be assertive in
the next. Her modest personality outshines others
in its own subtle way. She indulges in life’s simple
pleasures – occasional chitchats with friends over
a cup of coffee or endless movie marathons with
friends and block mates. She is also one of the
most responsible students on campus. She can
socialize and party all night yet still meet the next
day’s deadlines and accomplish other school-
related obligations.

She is a passionate person who holds a deep


appreciation for art and beauty. She pays special
attention to details that other people wouldn’t
normally bother to notice. She is also a neat freak,
making sure that all her priceless belongings fall in
the right place. Her strengths rest on her irrefutable
and determined spirit which helps in the pursuit of
her goals. Without a doubt, she is the epitome of
true beauty: strong-willed on the outside yet truly
magnificent beyond.

74 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Margarita Maria
Magsino Luz

Gita’s name does not come from the Bhagavad


Gita (as a friend once thought), but Margarita – that
delicious cocktail. This unexpected twist to her
name is also reflective of her personality. Like
the drink, she can be the life of a party – although
she has never become inebriated enough to spill
secrets. Gita can talk to anyone about anything yet
still manage to keep that thing under wraps.

There is something admirable about people who


know how to keep secrets, no matter how small, for
they know how to hold a life in their hands. Though
few people know how to do this sadly, Gita is surely
one of them. When it comes to herself though,
she is an open book and a brave woman whose
creativity is as big as her sense of responsibility.

Gita’s life is also characterized by one word,


wanderlust. She often feels cooped up at home so
she’s often just a text away from adventure – diving
in Palawan, hanging out in a farm in Batangas,
or going to Boracay yet again with her family.
Her sense of wanderlust is equally fueled by her
love for the Philippines. That’s why she’s into
developmental work. She hasn’t and won’t lose
hope for this country.

Margarita Ingredients:
A shot of Wanderlust
A dash of Secrecy
A pinch of Outgoingness
A whole lot of Friends

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 75


Gino Joaquin
Lazatin Magat

Gino is a gentleman with substance. This guy is


like a diamond that stands out in the crowd and
has plenty of qualities to admire. He gives so much
love and respect to his family and friends and never
forgets to lend a hand to the less fortunate. He
would go out of his way just to protect the ones
closest to his heart. His work ethic is exceptional:
he sets a goal every week, works everyday even on
weekends, and is hands-on in his tasks! Aside from
being a natural businessman, Gino is also a car
aficionado! He loves cars, especially the 750 or 740
BMW series! This car devotee spends most of his
time dealing with different automobile showrooms.
Whenever you think of Gino, think forgetful (hihihi),
think of hot cars (vroom-voom), think of light and
cheerful colors, think of the show Contender, think
of Top Gun, think of brown rice (for his diet)…most
of all, think of his sparkling traits: how genuine
and sincere this individual is! That being said, I
have your family and school to thank for molding
you all these years into a perfect role model and a
wonderful boyfriend.

To never-ending bills, wrinkles, gray hair, more


headaches, greater responsibilities, and a life-long
journey of work…welcome to the real world! May
you fulfill all your dreams, continue to grow, and be
the best person you can be!

Truly blessed for knowing you,


All the love in the world, Jen

76 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jan Mikhail
Mendiola Malang

Mik has made his stamp in the Ateneo by simply


being himself and keeping his feet on the ground.
He can pull off jokes with a remarkably straight
face, suppressing the zany grin that usually lights
up his face. He is a most welcome friend, especially
during the most stressful weeks of school. Once
he flashes a broad grin, you’ll soon find yourself
smiling with him.

Mik knows how to take pleasure in simple things.


He knows how to find joy in life and he knows how
to share it. Mik is the person to turn to when in
need of not just encouragement or laughter but of
sound advice. Most people on- and off-campus
seek his company because his carefree personality
manages to make everything a fun experience.

There is more to Mik than just having fun. He


always has a master plan and knows when to get
down to business. He will always be remembered
as the guy who finds success in the most crucial
situations. More importantly, Mik defines true
friendship. He always has his friends’s backs and
that is why his friends will always have his. He is a
good listener and is always ready to give practical
advice because of his awesome ability to analyze
situations and predict possibilities.

Mik is often asked if he is related to the painter (he


isn’t). But in many ways he is like the artist, with
an acute understanding of the world and a pure,
infectious zest for life.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 77


Anna Dominique
Frances Montes
Marasigan
Anna Dominique Frances – her parents wanted to
torture her with that long name! This girl has super
persuasive powers. She never takes “no” for an
answer; but if it’s a gimik or an outing, you’ll surely
enjoy every minute of it with her. She knows when
to be sweet, sporty, and when to party. She’s an all-
around girl, except in domestic matters. But that’s
how we’ve learned to love her. (JV)

You’ll surely gain unforgettable memories from


hanging out with this girl. Not a second with
Annick is dull and boring because everything
she does – bowling, dancing, studying, or even
driving – she does with passion. Her most
passionate side shows when she makes new
friends because her loyalty and vibrant personality
complement the beauty that she possesses inside
out. People just can’t get enough of her. (Luis)

With a personality as unique as her name, Annick


is always there to put a smile on your face. A
fun-loving person whose presence is enough
to complete our barkada’s day even when she’s
moody. A true friend through thick or thin. (Telle)

My first love will forever remain in my heart because


her unrelenting energy brightens everyone’s days.
Despite her busy schedule, she finds time to
make sure that her loved ones are all right.Though
she’s not perfect, her flaws accentuate her heart’s
goodness. She radiates infectious positivity by
loving every moment life has to offer. (SP)

78 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Alyanna Carmela
Sumilang Martinez
Her skin gives off a pinkish glow in the afternoon
sun as she walks to her next class. She throws
out waves and smiles to friends and strangers
alike – people whose days are made lovelier by her
heart-stopping smile.

Unmistakably, she is stylish, creative, fun-loving,


adventurous, and spontaneous – traits reflected
by her exquisite taste in fashion, commendable
bargain-hunting skills, and one-of-a-kind
accessories. Her entire being (down to her nail
color) screams of art and fashion. She leaves no
detail unnoticed, always in search of perfection and
chic style. A quintessential fashionista, she is truly a
style icon ahead of her time.

A darling in every sense of the word and a gorgeous


woman with a child’s heart, she can’t help but
captivate people with her beauty and charm. Her
innocence is so endearing, yet this girl possesses
extraordinary wisdom. A woman of God who lives
by example, her humility and selfless attitude are
truly admirable. There is no denying that there
is something more to this woman than what her
physical beauty exudes. She is extraordinary
indeed in more ways than one.

Alabaster skin, rosy cheeks, and a friendly aura.


Pressed buttons of a cellphone held to the ear
could only mean one thing. In a moment, you are
bound to hear a soft, caramel-like voice say, “Hi!”
With that alone, your day will seem brighter.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 79


Danielle Marianne
Espiritu Mendoza

If it’s not her family, friends, chocolates, or


shopping, it’s dancing that keeps Danie going. She
moves as if there’s no one watching and dances
as if there’s no tomorrow. The discipline, the grace,
and the strength that dancing gives have enamored
her to the art since the age of three. Through it,
she gains her drive for excellence not only in her
performances but also in life.

Danie captivates others, leaving them longing to


know more. It could be because of her intelligence,
superb dancing skills or maybe her fun outgoing
personality. Her exquisite beauty transcends
what’s on the outside and goes deeper to what
truly matters: her heart. Diligence can be found at
the core of Danie’s personality. Everything’s like a
performance that she must end with a bang.

Much can be said about this woman – from


watching her move gracefully to dance the night
away, gazing at her bright face and intriguing figure,
hearing her delayed laugh after a joke, reading her
colorful notes, adoring her artsy sketches, or simply
experiencing peaceful moments with her.

To get to know the real Danie is not only a privilege,


it’s an experience worth remembering. Indeed, great
dancers aren’t great because of their technique;
they are great because of their passion. Danie does
not only have both technique and passion, but also
the faith that God will keep her dancing until the
lights dim and the music fades.

80 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Carmela Angela
Malimban Mendoza

In the crucible known as college, we like to take


comfort in watching each other’s back. And for
the most part, we wish we knew somebody who
had ours covered. Let the group projects come. It
doesn’t matter. Lala has your back no matter what.
But don’t let the bookish demeanor fool you. Lala
Mendoza has a heart to match her brain and looks
to complement both.

You know that “total package” people talk about?


That’s her, just so you know. She is everything one
could possibly think of – a loving daughter, a doting
sister, a diligent student, a passionate organization
member, and a great friend. Lala has dedicated her
life to family, friends, and ultimately God. Always
ready to help, share, and listen, she is a genuine
friend and an excellent role model.

Life would not be as beautiful without Lala. With


her, normal things appear extraordinary – lunch
breaks in the cafeteria become something to look
forward to, Simbang Gabi at the Gesu gives the
holiday breeze a sweeter smell, and watching
movies becomes more enjoyable than seeing the
Grand Canyon.

God has ways of making people feel life’s beauty.


For many, it is through knowing someone who
is easy to like, understand, be friends with, and
love. Four years may be a short time to know her
completely, but in those four years, we sure saw a
glimpse of heaven – in Lala.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 81


Napoleon Stanley
John Corcino Mina

No Write-Up = No Picture

82 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Camille
Jimenez Mirasol
Camie is a Special Child, with Special Children of
her own (both real and imaginary). Her ingenious
repertoire includes a world-class disappearing act
(usually pulled off only on Friday nights), a never-
ending string of corny jokes, and her signature
“elbow-anti-karma-thingamajiggy” clap dance. She
is in possession of fabulous assets (and by that we
mean that she’s booty-licious) and has the ability to
attract males of all shapes, sizes, and professions
by the dozens. This always uplifts a spirit or two – as
a certain self-proclaimed saint reminds her during
their inescapable Tuesday-Thursday conversations
on life, love, love, and love.

Oh yes, Camie is also an astronaut. We mean that


figuratively, not literally (though intelligent people
have their spacey moments too). You see, people
are either astronauts or astronomers; the difference
being that astronauts actually go out to see the
stars that astronomers study from earth. Camie
has always reached for the stars with her adamant
refusal to watch life go by while others live it. She
co-writes treaties, transforms her racket into a
guitar, and plays sipa with her shuttlecocks, drinks
and dances until she drops, and makes life more
colorful one video project at a time.

You see, she is the sun and we are the stars, she is
Jupiter and we are its moons, she is the diamond
and we are the…rough! Yes she’s a rather peculiar
creature but endearing nonetheless – especially for
us children who want to but can never be just as
Special as her.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 83


Jeffrey Wilson Ang Ng

First impressions often suggest that Jeff is mataray


and snobbish; but if by some lucky chance you’re
able to spend some time with him, you’d realize
that he is nothing like those traits. Jeff is simple
(contrary to his high-maintenance appearance) and
funny (as opposed to his serious front). He can
make anyone’s bad day happy with his corny jokes
and unpredictable silliness! He’s a very thoughtful
guy – making wake-up calls in the morning so his
group mates won’t be late for school and texting
reminders about projects. He’s easygoing and
doesn’t make his problems any bigger than they
should be. He’s not just about fun and games either
and knows when to stand by his beliefs.

He’s a fantastic guy, a role model, a trustworthy


friend, a perfect gentleman, and one of the most
faithful guys on earth. He may seem like Mr. Sungit
at first glance, but he’s as kengkoy as a Boyoyong
clown once people get to know him better. Just
don’t get him mad, else he’ll turn into the Incredible
Chinese Hulk!

Jeff’s definitely a friend who won’t turn his back on


you even when everyone else has. He is a nice guy
with a good heart. He doesn’t express much but
his quiet ways say it all. Jeff Jiayou! There’s never
a dull moment with him for his presence somehow
lightens the mood anytime, anywhere.

All the sleepless nights and endless readings have


finally paid off. Wish you the best in what your
future has to offer!
84 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS
Cheryll Basco Ngo

So many words can go beyond the superficial


notion most people have of this woman. Believed
and seen to be a quiet, reserved person, Che is
absolutely the opposite once you get to know her.
A deep person who feels much emotion, Che can
easily sympathize with a friend and will do her best
to be there even if only to listen and give company.

There is so much to learn, like, and love about


Che. Her corny jokes, annoying laugh, and pa-cute
smile are simply contagious and are only some of
the reasons why hanging out with her is always
amusing. Behind this “shy” front, Che has had a
passion for basketball ever since she was a kid.
She has struggled hard to live her ambition of being
in the UAAP. Now, thanks to much hard work, she’s
the Team Captain of the Ateneo Lady Eagles.

Che, so far, has been reaching her goals one by


one. She has had her fair share of ups and downs,
but she passed through them determinedly. Though
some people may think wrongly of her, Che still
stands tall, proud of who she is and who she can
still be, because she believes in herself. She knows
she can do so much for others and she lives a
simple yet happy life.

Che is unquestionably a valuable person to cherish


forever. A good listener. A reliable companion. A
supportive and compassionate team captain. A true
friend and a real person. That is Cheryll Ngo – one of
the few with a loving heart and a touching soul.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 85


Jose Martin
Gruba Noel

About College:
They say never refuse an invitation, never resist the
unfamiliar, never fail to be polite, and never outstay
your welcome. Just keep your mind open and suck
in the experience…and if it hurts? It’s probably
worth it. As for traveling alone, so what? If that’s the
way it has to be, then that’s the way it is.

About Life:
You hope, and you dream, and you never believe
that something is going to happen for you, not like
it does in the movies. When it actually does, you
want it to feel different, more visceral, more real.
I was waiting for it to hit me, but it just would not
happen.

College has been a great experience and a crazy


roller coaster ride for me – it had its ups and downs.
In the first semester of my freshman year, teachers
were so sure that I would get kicked out that year;
but guess what, I’m finally graduating! I’d laugh at
their faces now if I could.

Anyway, I’d just like to say thank you to the people


who made my life in college a lot easier and a lot
happier. La Pamilya, Snake Pit, Block D3, Luis,
Denise, the futsal team, and to my other friends
na tinatamad na akong ilagay pa dito. Salamat sa
inyong lahat! I wouldn’t be here now, in my final
year, graduating on time, without you guys, thanks!
Here’s to life after college! Que sera sera, baby…
whatever will be, will be.

86 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Brianne Aberlin
Tan Ong

Quiet, nice, and friendly – these characteristics


are often used to describe me. Bland adjectives,
I know. They do not say much about me because
they can apply to almost anybody.

But before getting into details, I just want to make


it clear that my name is pronounced Bree-ann,
not Brian. Many people often make the mistake of
thinking that I’m a boy because of my name.

I often appear serious but I’m also quite carefree


and easygoing. I like to take it easy and I often do
things one step at a time. I’m more of a listener
than a talker. I also procrastinate but I do make sure
that I get things done and that I do my tasks well. I
also like to discover and learn new things. I’m also
fond of watching TV. I can stay up all night watching
show after show. I also like eating good food,
especially scrumptious chocolate desserts.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 87


Ellyn Mae Turay Ong

In high school, Ellyn always felt out of place.


She tried to find her niche by going with different
groups, but she ended up graduating without ever
finding it. Come college, she finally realized that
she couldn’t restrict herself to one group alone. It
was then that she found the greatest friends any
person could find – the individuals around her. Some
have come and gone but each have left an indelible
mark, a huge impact that has shaped her into who
she is today.

College was, in one word, fun. It was an experience


that sometimes seemed too short, yet was
chock-full of memories. Trips to Baguio, Tali, and
Tagaytay; parties at Cabbage and 10th; bonding at
Beckham’s, Meatshop, Tribu, and Drew’s; touring all
the pocket gardens on campus; UAAP games; a lot
of kisses and hugs; tears and laughter. Memories
made with dear friends that will surely last for as
long as she is alive.

Years from now, even if we hope that she does


not forget, it is possible that she might miss some
details. Let’s summarize her entire college life:
Damien is a girl’s best friend, fishnets can be worn
to school, gigs are fun, sports relieve aggression, a
drink can fix anything, weight does not sexy make,
life should always be fun, and never be afraid to
love. Milk a moment for what it’s worth because you
will never get that moment again.

High school was nothing.


College is the best four years of your life.
88 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS
Patrick Francis
Rustia Pagcaliwagan

Some say that college changes and transforms the


person. However, Paddy really has not changed
all that much…despite getting a B in Math (his
biggest achievement since Grade School); despite
becoming a DSWS Carpool Committee officer
and a veteran INTACT facilitator; despite getting a
3.92 QPI once and walking on stage twice; despite
going to Japan on a study tour and learning to
speak Nihonggo more proficiently; despite taking a
double minor in Japanese Studies and Literature;
despite having a brief relationship that was fleeting
but beautiful; despite learning to commute and
becoming more independent.

Essentially, Paddy is still the same old person with


the same flaws, though some have worsened. He
still eats alone in the caf after four years, choosing
isolation deliberately. He still cannot drive a car
even though all of his colleagues can already. He
has never had a girlfriend – strictly speaking – and
has never fallen in love. He has never had a female
best friend. He is still a perennial crammer who
pushes his luck too far sometimes. His best friends
are self-pity and low self-esteem. He still loves
to ogle pretty girls but keeps his distance due to
bad experience. He tried to fit in with his block but
failed by asserting himself too much. He got a C in
English and got rejected by The Guidon – two things
that damaged his ego severely.

Alas, Paddy is still very much the same person:


accomplished yet strangely unfulfilled.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 89


Reynaldo Jesus
Bernardo Pasco, Jr.

This isn’t a write-up that aims to sell Rey Pasco


to people. This won’t say much about what he
has done, where he has gone, or what his favorite
things are. He grew up as an intellectually-capable,
emotionally-developed, and spiritually-guided
person much like anyone else who has been gifted
with certain privileges.

He has had the privilege of studying in this


institution for the past sixteen years of his life.
Even when he’s out the door, Ateneo will always be
his second home. If there is one thing that he will
value most from this experience, it would be how
the school has furthered his development as an
individual and convinced him of his great potential.

Rey can be whatever he aims to be. As a creative


student, he can come up with fresh ideas that
can leave an impact on anyone anywhere. Being
musically-inclined, he can guide his ears to listen
and make his hands move to express and share
the beat of life. He may come off as shy, aloof, and
possibly even a little mayabang, but at heart he
really is a sensitive and caring friend. There might
not be any great accolades in his honor now, but
someday he will make waves not just for himself
but for everyone whose life he touches.

90 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Ramon Antonio
Banson Pastelero

He’s a slacker. He’s always leaving everything


for the last minute until that sudden burst of
conscience kicks in and saves him. He loves to
have fun with friends. He will play any sport and
not only will he learn it quickly, he’ll love it. Living
life is ultra-important to him and he’s one of the few
people who can get away with juggling his grades
along with a host of other activities that he just has
to do. He is the epitome of a well-rounded person.

It’s hard to find reasons why you wouldn’t spend


time with someone like Ram. He’s a light-hearted
guy. You can always count on his positive attitude
to rub off on you. With his unique sense of humor
and stupid quirks, this guy is really great company.

And yet, Ram also has a very good head between


his shoulders. He’ll offer help whenever you need
it, no matter what. Those close to him will say
that he’s wise beyond his years for he has already
recognized what is most important to him in life at
such a young age.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 91


Joanna Marie
Rodriguez Peralejo

What does it mean to be Jamiefied?

It means that you are never without a gigantic


mirror, an overstuffed kikay kit, and a digital camera.
You dress in colorful shades of pastel and styles
that can easily label you as a typical “girly-girl”,
yet you defy the “sugar and spice” stereotype with
your gameness for just about anything and no-
fuss attitude in life. In school, you can be found at
the DSWS office where you are most likely fixing
its finances by writing budget reports or dutifully
manning your shift hours. At home, you dote
on your numerous dogs and relax by watching
koreanovela marathons while chowing down one
White Rabbit candy after the other. You shamelessly
dance to the Pussycat Dolls’s “Don’t Cha” and
jokingly claim it as your anthem. Your friends love
you for your sweet, caring, and thoughtful nature
and your ability to patiently listen and comfort them
when they need you the most.

So, are you Jamiefied?


Not quite. No one else can be quite as Jamiefied as
Joanna Marie Rodriguez Peralejo herself.

And you end it with another trademark Jamie


expression: It’s over! (*snap, snap*)

Now, pass the touch!

92 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Concepcion
Camila Cruz Quintos

With her distinct and exotic features, she naturally


stands out in any crowd. She is a kaleidoscopic
artist who has the rainbow in the palm of her
hands. Her strokes have magically breathed life into
portraits. Her guidance continues to enlighten the
people around her. Unfazed by pessimism, her eyes
see wonder and beauty in the simplest things. She
is the true embodiment of beauty. Her masterpieces
go beyond the canvas and touch the hearts of
many. (Mia Almeda)

Life is hipper, spunkier, and more beautiful with


her; not to mention that you become smarter – she
enlightens you on what installation art is, how to
use the T-square, the practicality of a Toblerone-
shaped ruler, and a bunch of other things. She likes
to surround herself with beauty and art! Her future is
brimming with happiness and fulfillment for she has
found her real self. So let me take this opportunity
to tell the world (or our batch at least) that Camille is
a truly, truly beautiful lady. (Ira Inquimboy)

Cam has a very contagious laugh, you can’t help


but laugh with her. (Pia Lizares)

Born to be an artist oozing with natural creative


genius, Camille will be raved about by critics in the
art world soon enough! (Marge Tabag)

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 93


Cristalle Lauren
Tupaz Ranillo

Everyone beware of Krista Ranillo! With her angelic


face, sweet smile, gorgeous body, and brains to
die for, she seems heaven sent. This religious,
charming, talented artista/model/everything-else
princess seems too good to be true. She is also
one of the most loyal and genuine friends a person
could have and one of the warmest, most caring
human beings on earth.

But behind that innocent façade lies a mischievous


little devil who can make you believe that you
can only buy blue books in the States and that
you missed a very important quiz when you were
absent. When you’re with Krista, you’re sure to be
laughing your head off with all her hilarious tricks
and quick quips. It doesn’t matter what you do
together for she’s always ready to go along with
anything spontaneously crazy.

Often one of the first to rally loudly for a free cut in


class, Krista is actually quite a nerd! A Dean’s Lister,
she often finishes her papers early so she can
spend the weekend with her friends. Though some
may think she’s mataray because she hardly hangs
out in school, she’s actually sleeping at home!

Truly, Krista Artista is a walking contradiction.


Angelic but wicked, funny but serious, silly but
nerdy, social but anti-social, sweet but naughty,
caring but mischievous…the list goes on. But one
thing is for sure, the minute Krista walked through
the halls of Ateneo, we were all touched by an
angel. Can I have your autograph?!

94 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Ace Ramil
Limjoco Reyes

Ace is the ultimate athletic wonder boy of Ateneo.


He doesn’t walk; he glides like an Olympian god
whose shoulders move in rhythm with the wind.
Given his well-developed physique, his hugs usually
feel like a stranglehold, but who can get mad when
his face shows how happy he is to see a friend.
I’ll never forget that time he attempted to do a
cartwheel and his nylon shorts ripped in the middle.
He might seem like a muscular airhead but when he
puts his mind into something, you’d be surprised at
what he can do. (Annick Marasigan)

He is the kind of person who always listens even


when you don’t really make sense. He may be a bit
vain at times but this is understandable since, as a
member of the track team, he wants to maintain his
buff physique. He’s the kind of person who would
help you anytime, anywhere. (Telle Sy-Alvarado)

Si Ace ay ang nag-iisang guy friend ko na nagwo-


walkout kapag galit! Marami siyang kasablayan, lalo
na sa mga babae! (Joan Reyes)

He asserts his rights, speaks his mind, and makes


his own rules. If he wants something badly enough,
he will find a way to get it. Someone you can count
on, he’ll surely go the extra mile for you no matter
what. Ace, persevere and don’t quit when things
get tough. You are blessed with knowledge and
maturity beyond your years. Make good use of
these gifts. Just remember to “do more, need less,
dream big”. Pray always. Live life to the fullest
because life is too short to waste. (Niña Inovero)

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 95


Alfonso Luis
Balauag Reyes

Luis is one of those people you meet in college


whom you can depend on unconditionally. Calling
him your friend can be quite an honor. He knows
how to be both naughty and nice. Although he can
be quite quirky, and sometimes his mood swings
might throw you off, his passion for living life to
its fullest permits him to be. Despite the fact that
he has yet to change his hairstyle since birth, he
possesses creativity that inspires others. Planning
a gimik, a party, or an outing is easy when you
have Luis around. He does not know the meaning
of the word awkward – for him, every moment is an
opportunity that must be taken hold of. Yet, amidst
the fun you’ll have when you’re with him, Luis does
not forget to stop and think about the seriousness
of the world for a second. His sympathetic and just
heart truly makes him an Atenean.

To Miks who taught me lessons that I couldn’t have


learned in school, nag-enjoy tayo, noh?

To Dento, and so it is, just like you said it would be.


Don’t you worry, friend, I’ll stick by my 19th birthday
greeting to you.

To my Bora peeps who know how to have a good


time; to all of my blockmates who I find strength in;
to AISM whose teamwork I will forever be grateful
for; to all the people I’ve come across, meeting you
was my pleasure. Thank you.

To my family and God, need I say more? Salamat,


peeps! See you!

96 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Adeinev
Manahan Reyes
What to do in NEVerland? Explore the grandeur of
this world through NEVerland theater productions,
College Chapel mass services, Mateo Ricci or
library study area tours, or embark on a guided
NEVerland hike. Unsure where to start? Experience
the ever-popular NEVerland one-on-one, featuring
reflective discussions on aspirations and dreams
and animated storytelling in the large visitors center.
Surely, you will depart realizing that you have a
beautiful life and vowing to return in your free time.
Avail of the services of excellent tour guides from
NEVerlandTrustedFriends or NEVerlandFabFamily to
lead you to the Heart of NEVerland.

A testimonial from a tourist who has gone to the


Heart of NEVerland: Seeing her gives any person
an onrush of tenderness because she is at once
comfort and serenity. Nev’s sincere eyes tell you
exactly what you need in times of distress. Her
embrace brings a warm glow and a sense of well-
being. Her spirited words reflect the goodness
residing in her heart. An angel personified, she is
oriented towards all things good and true. To be her
friend is a blessing. No one can contest that Nev is
simply a source of immense pride and joy. However,
not everyone knows that Nev is a serendipitous
theater discovery. Hailed as one of Tanghalang
Ateneo’s promising stars, she excels because of
the depth of her emotions. Surely, only a passionate
person can exude that amount of confidence on
stage. Even without the klieg lights, her radiance
shines oh so brightly.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 97


Kevin Lim Reyes-Lao

Isa siyang henyo and his motto is: “You don’t have
to do anything; things will always work out for the
better.”

Ask a question about almost anything to Kevin; he’ll


surely spew bits and pieces of his wisdom right
away. His insights, witty and sometimes humorous,
lead to a greater understanding of the universe
in a very practical way. He is, however, humble
enough to admit that there are a million and one
things in this world that are left unexplored. This is
why he strives hard to internalize every endeavor
he undertakes. Now don’t think that he is some
bearded philosopher or a geek without a social life.
When not doing anything, Kevin loves to eat out
with his friends and family.

In spite of his idyllic life, Kevin maintains a relatively


humble character. He is a loving son, a caring
friend, and just about a little bit of everything. More
than this, he humbles himself at the truth of Jesus
Christ as he walks in his daily life with Him. He may
come off strong when you first meet him, but he is
certainly there in times of need.

Kevin’s genius does not remain at the cognitive


level. It searches for the heart and pierces through
the soul.

98 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Andre Francisco Rivera

Andi is today’s typical college lad – a free-spirited,


self-confident, jazzy-dressing gig-freak! Tough on
the outside – usually zealously working out in the
gym to maintain his killer six-pack or playing three
simultaneous hoop games at the covered courts.
Gentle on the inside – simple yet stunning, often silly
and comical, yet occasionally deep and mysterious
as well. To most friends, Andi’s a rare find. the type
who is comfortable with himself and always brings
out the best in others – his true character shines
ever so brightly through his friends.

Andi is the ubiquitous gigster on- and off-campus,


never missing a beat in extracurricular activities. His
energetic demeanor is infectious – whether at hearty
gatherings at local bars, village parties, or even
just chilling out at the SEC-C foyer. Yet, beyond his
seemingly unquenchable zest for college life, Andi
is the consummate student. The icky eye bags,
haggard look, and insignificant facial blotches that
would ordinarily freak him out won’t matter when
it comes to school work, which is unquestionably
his top priority. Andi never hesitates to burn the
midnight oil because he knows that his academics
should be given only his best.

Andi: dedicated friend, true buddy, stunning date,


charming host, energetic colleague, resolute
student, focused athlete, able leader, great
potential. Why look anywhere else?

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 99


Isabel Rose
Antonio Robles

Bel marches to the beat of her own drummer who


coincidentally wears her favourite men’s deodorant,
Gillette Clear Stick in the Cool Wave scent. “In
pain” was how a friend described her Filipino. She
is perpetually on a diet that she perpetually breaks
as she gives in to temptation in the form of Auntie
Anne’s cinnamon sugar pretzel dipped in cheddar
or the occasional Big Mac Meal. Nigella Lawson
and the Barefoot Contessa rock her world. If she
were a nut, she’d be a pistachio. Sticker peeling
remains one of her more unique methods to pass
time, where the thrill lies in successfully peeling a
sticker without leaving residue behind – this is likely
something she will still be doing ages from now.

Beyond the absurdity of this being lies a kindred


spirit. She saves the dolphins and frees slaves
with friends in her free time. Shallow tears tend
to expose themselves when she’s engrossed in
watching Tuesday night teen dramas on ETC.
Equipped with an eye for beauty, Bel appreciates
and finds uniqueness in things people usually don’t
take notice of. When gravity finally begins to take its
toll and when anti-wrinkle cream becomes a staple
in her daily regimen, what would she have made of
herself? A pre-school teacher? Right now she’s just
happy to have passed thesis class.

100 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Feliciano Custodio
Rodriguez III

Lian never did grow up, not just because he didn’t


reach his height expectations (he’s still hoping
though), but because he is, in essence, still a child
at heart. You will never see him moping around,
fretting or worrying before an exam, or comparing
notes or grades, or studying with other people.
Very laidback, he could be a surfer dude if not for
his very fair skin that suffers excruciating sunburns
whenever he’s under the sun for more than ten
minutes and his inexplicable fear of crabs and the
abyss. Very nocturnal, he gets his cheeky, light-
hearted, but vampiric (he has dark circles under his
eyes) disposition from the cosmic rays he absorbs
from the lunar light and the radiation from his TV
and computer monitor.

Lian is rarely late for class; in fact, it’s a guarantee


he’ll be there ten or five seconds before the second
bell. He has never been particular about his grades;
but when something strikes his interest, he’ll turn
into a green, geeky monster, researching every
facet and angle of that subject until he becomes
a mini-expert in that field. Have you ever tried
sleeping with your eyes open? Lian has apparently
mastered it since freshman year. Ask him about it,
you could be an apprentice of this unnatural ability.

Like Captain Jean Luc Picard, Lian enjoys Earl Grey


tea, afternoon snacks, light-hearted conversations
with gentlemen and beautiful ladies (ode to all his
friends), and going were no man has gone before.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 101


Anna Denise
Manikis Roque

When Den doesn’t know who you are talking


about, she likes to say that she lives under a rock.
Den says this without a hint of self-pity, but in
an endearing singsong way that we’ve all grown
to love. One must not be fooled by her physical
stature as her larger-than-life personality more than
makes up for it. Dainty, witty, and offbeat, she is
an old soul with the heart of a child and wisdom
beyond her years. She has an incredible smile that
is only as infectious as her silly brand of humor.
She calls her fists “the ambassadors of pain”, and
femininity “the carnal treasure all women should
protect” – things no one else would get away with.

A “professional appreciator” of music and films, she


claims that her life moves at 24 frames per second
and that she has long been committed to creating
the soundtrack of her life. Her love for life is
immense and that is where her real beauty lies. She
is the quintessential girl-next-door; one of the boys
who would rather spend Saturday nights painting
the living room (more so than the town) red.

Time never really seems important as conversations


with Den go by faster than you wish them to be.
She becomes what you need her to be when you
need her to be it: the shoulder, the angry mob, the
drinking buddy, the sparring partner. She is a caring
sister to her siblings, a spoiled daughter to her dad,
and a constant fashion experiment to her mom. The
little rock amazing Den lives in is crowded with all
the people who feel lucky to have met her.

102 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Christine Ann
Quijano Salazar

And then there was Kring.

Arguably the most gluttonous anorexic-looking lady


on campus, she can definitely scare anyone out
of their wits the moment they witness her baffling
eating lifestyle. Known to many of her friends as
the ukay-ukay queen, about 75% of her wardrobe,
bags, and shoes come from thrift shops all over
the metro. Indeed, Kring is a non-conformist who
proudly wears earrings made of buttons, five-
centavo coins, paper clips, and softdrink tabs.

But see, there’s more to Kring than her humongous


appetite and quirky taste in fashion.

She lives passionately, believing that time is always


running out for her to do what she can. Someone
who really sticks up to her principles, this Puritan
advocate for healthy and pure living follows a strict
no-chocolates-chips-softdrinks-alcohol code. A
kid at heart whose simple joys in life range from
clouds to dirty ice cream to paint, she never took
for granted the little things, which, for her, are the
big things in life. She is a joyful person committed
to making other people happy as well. And for
someone who’s as alive and loud as her, it’s no
wonder that her friends get bothered when she
becomes silent – quite a rare happening in this rare
person’s life.

And there is no other like Kring.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 103


Paulo Reyes Santillan

Paulo Santillan (a.k.a. Pow) is one student on


campus who quickly catches one’s attention.
Standing taller than six feet, his bright and
charming personality cannot be ignored for his very
presence demands attention. Often perceived as
aloof due to his stature and stride, his smile hints at
a tender, softer side. His bubbly persona makes him
an entertaining companion. His true nature makes
him an outstanding friend.

Although artistic and intellectually enriching,


Pow’s humor is easily grasped by all, earning him
popularity among many of the students in the
university. His theatrical ability is nothing short of
amusing. His company can defined as nothing less
than enjoyable. Without his presence, the collective
experiences of SOH batch 2007 would never have
been as significant as it has become for many. His
nickname encapsulates his impact on the lives of
his friends: Pow!

104 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Magdalena Zamora
Schenkirsch

Good mornings are Maggie mornings. She walks on


sunshine in a delightful world of giggling animals,
cotton-candy clouds, rainbow-colored skies, a
singing moon, and dancing stars. Her optimism
transforms even the dark and dreary into beautiful
bliss. She’s a strong believer in true love and strives
to make the world a better place. This manifests
itself in her commitment to help children – from
those who are less fortunate to those with special
conditions. A softhearted and down-to-earth
person, she appreciates life to the nth degree.

But don’t let her jovial disposition fool you into


thinking that she’s always cheerful and dancing.
Maggie is a hard worker and a great leader. Even
though she seems in over her head with all the
challenges she takes on, she always finds the time
to stop and smell the flowers. She makes sure she
has time for everything and everyone. Maggie is
well-rounded – she isn’t all studies, but she isn’t all
play either. She’s also a highly courteous person,
making sure to think twice before saying something
so as not to insult anyone. However, be warned.
If you mess with her, you need to be prepared.
Though she knows to bite back when bitten, she
rarely needs to because she has dozens of friends
ready to back her up when necessary.

Maggie can probably be summed up by something


Buddha once said: “That which is most needed is a
loving heart.” Maggie has or is that loving heart.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 105


Iris Gayle Coyee So

How can you adequately describe a person in one


page? To tell you the truth, it’s impossible. Iris is like
a diamond with many facets. Each side is different
and has a lot to say.

Think of Iris not only as a good friend but also as a


sister and an adviser. She guides people through
life, never allowing them to lose their way. She tries
to understand them, comforting them with hugs
and encouraging advice whenever they feel lost.

Iris is a nice girl who has a heart of gold. She is very


witty and a happy person. She may seem snobbish
at times but don’t let her looks fool you for she is
truly friendly. She endlessly cracks jokes that are
way too corny just to make her friends laugh.

One can consider her as an angel sent from heaven


and bringing with her the gift of love, courage, and
strength. She’s the perfect friend that everyone
wishes to have.

Although they say that life isn’t perfect, yours will


surely take a turn for the better once you meet this
girl – a real person who can teach you the meaning
of life. So once you’ve met her, make sure to never
let her go.

106 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Khristelle Jean Lauren
Hao Sy-Alvarado

Telle is the quintessential friend. Loyal, easily


approachable, caring, humorous, sympathetic,
and lovable. Her beauty radiates both inside
and out. She doesn’t realize it but her presence
always seems to light up the place. She can be
hard-headed at times but that’s just part of her
charm. An expert of food, movies, and fashion,
she is even better at being a friend. Telle, a simple
girl at heart but so magnificently complicated in
a wonderful way. (Peter)

I have few college memories without Khree since


we’ve been inseparable since OrSem. Together,
we’ve experienced bad haircuts, stressful exams,
crazy shopping sprees, and movie marathons from
all genres imaginable. We share a love for shopping,
talking, and eating to keep us busy when we’re
together. Don’t be upset if you wave at her and she
doesn’t wave back, she probably just can’t see you
due to bad eyesight. Oh and for her future admirers,
ask her straightaway if you have a chance because
she can be quite mean when she doesn’t like you.
Moreover, she’s the perfect companion to scary
movies because she has a heart of stone. But don’t
let that fool you. Once you melt her down, you’ll
find a romantic soul just waiting for a handsome,
rich Prince Charming she can live with happily ever
after. It doesn’t matter if we don’t see eye to eye all
the time. True friends don’t always get along; they
irritate each other endlessly but they never leave.
That’s how we are. (Ani)

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 107


Margarita Castillo
Tabag

Let’s start with the lips because, really, Marge


is famous for those perfect Jolie kissers that a
million women would kill to have and a zillion guys
would die for. Tell her this, however, and she’d
probably just say you’re seriously delusional or
laugh her head off until tears begin streaming down
her gorgeous face or both. And then there’s that
beautiful mind. Aside from her lips, Marge is known
for her effortlessly brilliant witticisms and twisted
humor. She has this amazing ability to play with
words that not only brings home the point but also
renders even the most lucid speechless.

People just love having her around because, when


you’re with Marge Tabag, you’re certainly in good
company. She appreciates the simplest things,
is up for anything, and can talk about random
topics – classical literature, old school jokes,
miracles, underground music, F1, indie films, and,
heck, even why Smurfs are blue. Marge is also one
of the best listeners you’ll ever meet. When her
friends need to get a reality check or to see things
in a new perspective, she patiently hears them out
and tries to understand where they’re coming from
before giving well-thought, insightful advice.

A sensible, strong, and passionate lady, Ritzy


also knows how to defend herself as well as other
people who are being maltreated. She’s truly one
of those unbelievable, finely created records that
move you with their poetry and artistry.

108 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Angelie Yvette Ong Tan

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 109


Cara Maia
Kho Tanlimco

Cara has an exquisite face and a fun demeanor that


can complete your day. She could actually be more
prominent than she is now; but out of humility, this
simple girl turns many opportunities down. Cara
is arguably one of the sweetest and most down-
to-earth people I know. Amidst her beauty and
kindness, she has a good heart and a brilliant mind
that warm others in her very special way.

Cara has this otherworldly ability of making


everything interesting without resorting to
exaggeration. She has a way of looking at the world
as though she sees beauty in everything and wants
to savor every last drop of it. She appreciates small
details, simple flairs, and the quirks that make life
more interesting. She appreciates the time she has
been given to achieve the impossible, conquer
her fears, and see the world. She is bursting with
strength, artistry, intelligence, and integrity. Her
honest to goodness disregard for conformity and
immeasurable compassion and love make her a
Stargirl in our midst, destined for limitless blue skies
and cloudless nights.

Cara is a person whose beauty radiates inside out.


She is naturally beautiful – a true person with a very
kind heart.

Charming. Admirable. Reliable. Appealing.

Name it, she’s got it. In a nutshell, Cara is a person


who is hard not to love.

110 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Mariel Ann
Cosico Tenorio

Mariel Ann Tenorio: a girl who delivers her first


impressions strong and poised, then makes sure
you won’t forget it. People think that she’s a quiet
little girl at first; but once they talk to her, they’re
surprised by how big her personality is. She is
always the life of any gathering. It’s the warm smile
and the lovely humor she brings into a group that
naturally make others smile in return. It’s her street-
smooth charm that keeps them laughing long after
her jokes have been uttered.

Maan, as her friends call her, went to St.


Scholastica-Marikina for high school. There, she
was able to gain a group of loyal friends. Even
now, busy schedules and tedious projects are not
enough to keep Maan away from her barkada.

It says a lot about her character, how much she


values her friends. She is one of the special people
in our block who I am able to call my friend in its
truest, purest sense. When things go wrong, she’s
there for support. When I need help reviewing for
a test, Maan has me covered with her personally
compiled and organized lesson summaries. Or if I’m
simply looking for good company to tick away the
time until the next class, Maan is right there with
me. She always has a story to tell, which is why
why people will never get bored with her. She’s also
great when you just need someone to talk to and
vent out to. She will listen intently and give good
advice when needed.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 111


Cassandra Noel
Gomez Tioseco

Kat: Cassy is my best basketball player.


Christina: No question about it, she stands
out – not just because of her height but also her
passion and enthusiasm. 
Dad: Height of Yao Ming, Skills of Tim Duncan,
Discipline of Michael Jordan. MVP of the UAAP. You
are better than any son I could ask for. Love you.
Cammy: Cassy’s the best sister in the world. She’s
always so nice to me. 
Camille: Meet Cassy, the reason we’re trying to
invent keyboardless computers.
Kariz: The way to this girl’s heart is through her
stomach. 
Clarry: Cassy always pushes me harder. She’s my
inspiration in basketball.
Mom: A genuine blue-blooded girl; not only is she
a true and loyal Atenean, she is also the great (x4)
grandniece of our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. 
Dcay: Cassy is the popular girl who prefers to
go unnoticed, seemingly reserved yet kengkoy in
her own Fil-Can kind of way. She is my right lung
without whom days would be unimaginable, my
teammate, eating buddy and confidante all rolled
into one.” 
Coach Rebo: To me, Cassy is what Philippine
women’s basketball should be. 
Crissy: When Cassy sleeps, she really sleeps.
When Cassy eats, she really eats. When Cassy
plays ball, she really plays ball. But when I need a
friend, it’s always my sister, Cassy.

112 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Audrey Eleanor
Uy Tong

First impressions don’t last. Don’t let the soft,


“intention-less” voice, and well-chosen ladylike
outfits fool you. Despite being voted as “crush ng
bayan”, Audrey is far from demure, and even farther
from being quiet. Very candid and talkative, her
friends equate her to a long narrative that seems to
go in circles with countless interconnections.

To match her “intention-less” voice is her


expressionless face. Whether excited, sad, kilig,
or nervous, she has only one voice and facial
expression for it all. In fact, you can only know how
she feels if she tells you. But do not mistake her
monotone voice and lack of facial expressions as
indications of a person devoid of feelings. Friends
can assure you of her unfaltering dedication to the
true meaning of friendship. She is unconditionally
there for anyone who needs anything, whether it’s
counseling or an extra hand in practical arts.

By the way, she loves rationalizing. In fact, she


can give psychological explanations for almost
anything  – from happiness to confusion, from weird
guys to violent storms. In spite of such rationality,
Audrey admits to being an emotional person at
times; though her face and tone of voice hide it.

All in all, frank yet “intention-less”, highly rational


yet emotional, very expressive yet seemingly
expressionless, Audrey is a contradiction of sorts
and is quite the opposite of all the first impressions
others may conceive. And we all love her for it!

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 113


Antonio Carlos
Noguera Tuaño

Very much like a guitar, Chuck will always deliver a


tune whenever you pull his strings. Pull them right,
he’ll create a wonderful melody. Pull them wrong,
he’ll just make noise.

Every now and then, a guitar’s strings loosen and


need retuning. Similarly, as a sociable individual,
Chuck defers to his very capable and knowing
friends to keep him in line and on tune.

All guitars, whether electric or acoustic, break when


they are not handled properly. Chuck may not be as
fragile as that, but he isn’t a doormat either. Just try
to smack him to the floor – and watch his six, if not
twelve, strings lash back at you with even greater
force. Lesson here: do unto others and so on and
so on.

Last but not the least, Chuck is the type of guy who
wouldn’t mind playing the back-up guitar so long
as the band plays his kind of music. Similarly, he’ll
back his friends up, so long as they are in the right.

Yeah, that’s Chuck, the Renaissance man.


He’s passionate in everything that he does.
As a musician, he will rock your world. As a
photographer, he will capture your true essence.
As an artist, he expresses his emotions through his
work. And as a philosopher…pilosopo talaga, puro
pa kalokohan! But most importantly, as a person,
Antonio Carlos is a true friend indeed.

114 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Elenita Jundelind
Pintucan Ugalino

Mariel has more than just a long name – she also


has a long list of credentials. She is someone
who cannot stay idle and unproductive for long.
In college, she joined organizations, participated
in legislative training, worked for the Sanggunian,
took French language classes, and went to the gym
regularly. So how was she able to find the time to
study and do all of her schoolwork? It was through
time management and discipline.

While others complain of too little time, Mariel


maximizes every hour and minute so that she can
do her work and do it efficiently. Once she sets her
mind to something, she really makes sure that she’ll
accomplish it as soon as she can.

Marz, as she is fondly called, is a very committed


person. Despite her busy schedule, she still
manages to spend time with friends. Her friends
never stay in a sullen mood for long because she
will cheer them up in every way possible, even to
the point of silliness. Sometimes, Marz even ends
up sacrificing a few things just to make sure that
none of her friends feel unloved.

Marz is committed to her family more than anything


else. Everything that she works hard for is for her
family’s benefit. She strives hard to please them
and exceed their expectations. For Marz, best is the
only option and the working principle in life.

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 115


Jeffrey Jon Go Uy

Yo, yo, yo it’s goin’ down right now…


Jepoy. Jepoy. Yo, he’s my boy…
Here’s a jazzy beat for you and me to enjoy…

You’ll find him back at his lair


With his flowing black hair.
Layin’ there like he don’t care,
Groovin’ to beats like jungle bear.

Jeff don’t want no ruckus,


He even got the beard of Jesus.
Invisible is his YM status.
A barrage with his drumming apparatus.

116 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Veronica Marie
Yumping Verzo

Missing!

Name: Veronica Verzo (a.k.a. Nikki, Maki, Kich)

Distinguishing physical features:


A bushy head of curls; a dangerously voluptuous
figure; an impossibly small waist; an elastic,
contortion-ready face

Last seen:
Roaming the streets of Katipunan at 3 a.m.; holding
a dripping sundae cone; wearing bright, summery
clothes and Management flats

May have (since last seen):


Already come out of her disco diva personality
closet, conquered the world of grass court tennis
(or married a super-athlete at least), started an all-
out revolution against hair straightening; secretly
starred in the latest Spiderman film installment

Unique personality traits (in case of disguise):


Encyclopedia-like knowledge of sports, music,
gadgets, and local pop culture (in spite of her
southern, coño-tic upbringing)

Most likely to be seen in:


Some far-flung overseas destination or a mall with a
three-day mall-wide sale

If found, please contact:


Uuh, never mind, good riddance, she’ll find her own
way home…

IN TERD IS C IP L IN ARY S TU D IES 117


AB Literature (English)
120
Michelle Erigio Ancheta

Michi can be likened to a Christmas parol, a colorful


one that is always bright with twinkling lights and
persists to shine against the bleak darkness. She
is a reliable, flexible, and pro-active individual who
consistently survives and inspires others likewise.
She affiliates herself with various organizations
that polish her abilities and strengthen her values.
Certainly, whatever amount of success that she
accumulates in the future will be well-deserved.

Michi is always brimming with wit and an


unrestrained sense of self which make her oh-so-
lovable to so many people. She is like a stand-up
comedian whose remarks always sell. She is
a constant surprise (she was first to volunteer
and ride a carabao during immersion) – making
other people burst into laughter with her
candid personality (she says the most hilarious,
unexpected remarks) and exceeding their
expectations.

More than all of this, Michi, like a Christmas parol,


unconditionally gives warmth. Her infectious natural
high can warm even the coldest atmosphere. Michi
is someone who brings a whole new meaning to the
adage “friends forever”.

So, unlike the seasonal parol, she will always be


hanging and shining brightly for her friends. Love
lots to the species, Michichay!

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 121


Maria Angela
Alonso Bagatsing

One love with each other,


Sister, brother,
One love, one life but we’re not the same.
We get to carry each other, carry each other.
One love.

- U2, “One”

122 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Regina Margarita
Weber Bautista

“…not even the rain has such small hands.”

New York squirrels nibble on crack. If you happen


to visit New York and sit long enough in Central
Park, you may chance upon a hyperactive squirrel,
high as a kite, going up and down, and up and
down a tree ‘til it’s a blur of back flips.

I know this because Reg knows this. It’s deceptive,


but the quiet ones have the best stories. A real
friend and the most present – she’s dependable.
Despite having been described to shuffle through
Ateneo like anemia unbound, she’s always
ready with a hug and a smile, however small.
She’s the one you have intellectually stimulating
conversations with by any sidewalk, where lapses
in sanity tend to fly by. Sooner or later you’ll find
yourself laughing hysterically over nothing – she’s
the type of person who lets you be who you are
around her. She spots the uncanny through her
viewfinder, able to translate her ideas onto paper be
it paint or ink. She takes pleasure in the small things
in life like a chilled beer, lip-smacking Tabasco,
McDonald’s Saver coupons, and musty books.

She dreams of making her own stories one day,


sampling wine from distant vineyards while lazily
blowing smoke at the same stars that have inspired
the world’s history makers. Regina constantly
dreams, unafraid to leave the shore.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 123


Juan Carlos Paragas
Buenaventura

124 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Celine Trency
Esperon Caga-anan

I have resolved to create a write-up of my own as


I’ve completely forgotten about it in the course
of the past few hell weeks. It’s not that I’ve no
friends (I do have many, really, I do), it’s just that
I’ve to rush it. Thank God for the three days given
to present a new one. So for the moment, I’ll just
describe myself in the perspective of my beloved
crutches (which I’ve discarded upon the removal of
my famous blue cast last April). So, here they are:
my crutches!

Crutches: We met Trency one January morning


when her father brought us to her quaint hospital
room. Despite the obvious injury to her right foot
due to a daredevil attempt to drive at breakneck
speeds during a go-cart race and the fact that she
was stil partially recovering from a delicious dose
of morphine, she was still aglow. One look at her
and we were hooked. We were to be the best of
friends for the next three months. Oh, she gave us
a hard time by always placing all her weight on us.
She was especially heavy on Thursdays, though we
don’t know why. But she always made sure that we
were safe and that we looked good. One time she
tied a pretty purple stuffed flower on us. We looked
good together with that perpetually smiling flower
of ours and her wild curly mane. We were the stars
of this show. We were the enchantresses that made
life magic (and unfabulously tragic). But all good
things have to end. When she regained her footing,
we had to part ways. But we know for sure that we
will always remember those three months.
Always….The End.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 125


Kelsey Co Cheng

Sociable and bubbly, Kelsey is the type of person


who is witty enough to be able to carry on a
conversation with just about anyone. Her warm and
open nature, coupled with her innate understanding
of people, makes her an easy person to discuss
things with, ranging from the profound to the
absurd. Yet amidst her keen interest and concern
for other people, she refuses to pass judgment.
She accepts people as they are, providing nothing
but steady support in whatever endeavor makes
them the happiest. She will do anything within her
physical and mental limits to help out, often to the
point of exhaustion. Maybe then, the term “giver”
suits her best. When everything falls apart, you
don’t need to ask for her help. No, for even without
asking, Kels will already be by your side.

126 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Abbey Krystle
Carpio Claudio

Abbey goes by plenty of nicknames, one of them is


Kinse. This wonder kid is probably the youngest in
the whole batch – having been admitted to college
at the age of fifteen. Another is Saudia because
she came from Saudi prior to college. When
people used to ask, “which high school did you
go to?” to initiate small talk, eager and hopeful to
make friends, Abbey ended all hopes of amity by
responding to the vexing, bothersome question with
a bleak and cold “Saudi”.

One of the distinctive things you notice about


Abbey is her low tolerance for all things
ostentatiously pleasant. Her shyness and subtle
wickedness often mask her secret rage for other
people. One can never call her innocent because
despite that shy, girlish smile and the fact that she
was younger than everybody else, her kaban ng
kaalaman is overflowing with uncanny knowledge.
She is ever dependable and is either available or
makes herself available for her friends and never
asks for anything in return. She is painfully honest
even when she tries not to be. She rants, she hates,
she stalks. But more than this, she loves, but will
never admit it. Behind her mask is a sweet little girl
who can infect you with her laughter. She knows
how to have fun; and in this favorite hobby of hers,
she excels with flying colors. Abbey’s generosity
and kindness is beyond words. College life would
not have been as fun, as crazy, and as gratifying
without Abbey Claudio.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 127


Maria Ailen
Rizo Claudio

Batang hanep. Milo queen. Riot kasama. Malupit


bumanat! Mahilig makinig. Assassin. Speed reader.
Crunk dancer. Hugger. Never photogenic. “Rawr”
pose. Pilitin ngumiti at tusukin ang dimples! Insanely
unpredictable. Or unpredictably insane. Grace
under pressure. (What pressure?) Grammatically
mathematical. Vintage pop! Has (and loves) her
grandmother’s clothes. Fashion sense-less. Bargain
hunter. Hot manang. Abi Pichel’s table tennis
partner supahstar! Kalyn Lopena’s soul sister.
Funky, quirky. Fringed sneakers. Crazy shoelaces.
Personal touches everywhere. Rock star librarian.
Intellectually stimulated. Radical non-romantic.
Lakad-lalaki. Kain-lalaki. Hampas-lalaki. “Pan-sexual
ako!” Sobrang tibay. Sobrang pasensyosa. Shock
absorber. Full-time rebolusyonarya. Gabriela Silang!
Gabriel(a) Marcel. Super labandera/plantsadora.
Nanayishin pride. (Ano daw? Pakitanong kay Ruel
Rosal.) Miss Quotable Quotes. Poetic memory.
Photographic memory. Walking music archive.
Killer voice. Closet (er, not anymore) OPM jukebox
aficionado. Movie-crazy. Movie scripts-crazy. No.
One stand-up comedian. Kiko Matsing! Rakrakan
all throughout. Kilos-bata. Isip-matanda. Pinay na
Pinay. Low maintenance – este, no maintenance!
Street smart. Hardcore commuter. Babaeng “tara!”
(Kahit saan, pwedeng isama). Alien? Ailen.

128 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jo Elize Bejerano
Comendador

Words can’t capture even 1% of Jo (or Joey,


as her close friends fondly call her). You have
to experience her friendship to know how truly
attractive and lovable she is. If by chance you get
to meet her, it is impossible not to be friends with
her for she is always the first, and sometimes the
only, person to flash a cheerful smile or offer a
compliment. She comfortably blends right in with
any group and stands out at the same time. Her
sweetness is captivating, her personality enthralling.

Joey is one of those rare people who are genuinely


concerned about other people, as she wears her
heart on her sleeve and is not afraid to show her
true emotions – a quality that is both endearing
and admirable. Even more, no one can fully
comprehend how Joey seems to remain perpetually
happy. This bubbly lady never fails to maintain good
cheer amidst the stress and the chaos around her. If
perkiness were a person, she would be it.

She possesses the grace and glamour (not to


mention the stature) of a supermodel/beauty
queen. An excellent picture of beauty – and it
doesn’t even matter what your definition of beauty
is – she effectively lives up to her name: she is Jo, a
“sweetheart”.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 129


Rhina Rose
Muñoz de Leon

If life were a poker game then Rhina was definitely


dealt with pocket aces! She enjoys the best
things in life while prioritizing her studies. She
is living proof that academics and fun are not
polar opposites. Thanks to her amazing time-
management skills, she has no such things as
sabog days and always looks fresh even when she
swears that she’s had only a few hours of sleep.

You think you know her but you have no idea! This
girl is full of surprises. Who would have suspected
this fashionista to be an F1 racing enthusiast? It’s
almost unthinkable that this girly-girl dances only
to hip-hop music! If Rhina were a candy, she would
be hard on the outside but surprisingly soft and
sweet on the inside. Her inscrutable mataray looks
and blunt, sarcastic humor are just as irresistably
endearing as her generosity, wit, and love of
laughter.

They say that you can tell a lot about a person by


the advice they give. In any given situation, at any
time, she would probably say one of the following:

1. Never cram.
2. If you must, at least look good doing it.
3. Be healthy.
4. Shop.
5. Live!
6. Love.
7. Laugh.

And that is how you live the high life, Rhina style!

130 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Monina Margarita
del Rosario de Mesa

Make your own Loony Moony!

Combine in a large mixing bowl:

5 pints girl
10 ounces boy
3 cups pirate
1 tablespoon vampire
A dash of glitter
1 pair of crutches (preferably with faux fur)
2 dozen lunatics
4 purple anacondas
5 parts cheese
4 geeks
1 saucy kitty cat
1 bus ticket on the Loon Bus™

Bake at 375 degrees. Serves everyone.

Ahoy!

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 131


Caira Joyce
San Luis Dimson

Nobody, and I mean nobody, can carry on a


conversation indefinitely about anything under the
sun like Caira Dimson. She never fails to crack
everyone up with her often witty, but sometimes
utterly senseless, remarks. Truly a multi-tasking
master, Caira has the extraordinary and inexplicable
ability of getting B+’s and A’s in her Philosophy
papers and oral exams as well as delivering
remarkably suave answers in graded recitations out
of stock knowledge from her amazingly retentive
memory and outstanding note-taking skills. These
she does amidst the numerous dinners, night-outs,
and parties with family and friends that she almost
never misses.

With her childlike giggle, outrageous (and


surprisingly effective) opinions and pieces of advice,
as well as her so-called “Caira’s Conclusions”, she
unfailingly manages to capture an audience. But
more than that, she captures countless hearts with
her generosity, genuine kindness, and sincerity.
Although she almost always comes to class last,
she remains first in all of our hearts.

132 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Eldridge Julius
Esquivias Gamboa

EJ \‘ç-,jâ\ n.
Energetic (like he takes Enervon everyday);
Jolly (like Jollibee).

If EJ were actually word, he’d be a verb. When


not trekking yet another mountain or joining a
marathon (or adventure race, or what-have-you
breakneck activity!), he’s proficiently digesting the
Classics – that, and burning double-servings of
chow in an instant. On the side, he does Captain
Planet work by advocating the preservation of
flora and fauna as the alpha male of the Loyola
Mountaineers. Despite perpetually having his hands
full, his written works are a constant display of
clarity and candor.

A leader in his own right, EJ has inspired his


colleagues and friends to move mountains,
besides climbing them. While he coaches team
mates to develop strength and endurance through
cross-training, he gives the rest of us, his friends,
defined abs from the laughter he injects into our
lives, ultimately helping us survive the most painful
experiences. Even though he’s always on the run,
this guy knows that his best time isn’t his briefest
yet on the track, but those languid moments he
generously spends speaking his mind to close
friends, rediscovering their nature, doing sketches,
or just being crazy.

A daredevil with a heart and vocation, EJ has the


strength, resilience, and passion to leave his mark
on everything he sets foot on, including our lives.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 133


Antonio Adrian
Melo Habana

Ino Habana is a Literature major, an honors


student, a volleyball player, a writer, and a party
boy. He always seems to have the energy to party
all night long despite a toxic week of quizzes,
long tests, and orals in Theology and Philosophy.
His spontaneity gives life to whatever group he
is with, always proposing last-minute road trips
to far-flung places like Makati and Divisoria (even
though his sense of direction is really bad). He is a
clueless romantic and an eclectic lunatic, making
every moment with him an unpredictable and crazy
adventure.

Ino has the uncanny ability of making people laugh


and cry at the same time when he jokes about the
jologs population of the Philippines. The strange
thing about Ino is that, even though he does
not admit it, he secretly dreams of being jologs
himself even for just a day. Whenever cameras are
around, Ino always make it a point to work it like
a professional model. He always has the biggest
smile in all the pictures and, on occasion, the
poutiest lips as well. Because of this, Ino has the
potential to be famous in the future, becoming the
next big thing in either the box office or the literary
world. There will come a time when Ino will find
himself miles away from where he started, but his
sudden bursts of insanity, lovable jauntiness, and
insatiable thirst for life will always keep him on track
for his next big adventure.

134 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Alexandria
Bernardo Jhocson

Who’s that with the loud screechy laugh? Oh…it’s


just Alex. This bohemian, beach-loving, travel-holic,
ragamuffin bum is carpe diem personified living in
her own warped world sashaying in slow motion
or sauntering in fast-forward mode. She’ll naïvely
annoy her way into your life and, before you know
it, you’ve already entrusted her with a special piece
of you that you may not have even known existed.

A person with undeniable strength and courage,


she has great wisdom that makes people believe
and trust in her words. There’s nothing to prove
when you’re around Alex because she understands
that limitations are non-existent. In a world where
humility and kindness are so easily overlooked, this
lady proves that dresses and stilettos are no excuse
for anything less than selfless service because “we
are too blessed and there are people in need”. She
is eternally thankful to God for all of her successes
and lucky hits in life. She is perennially in love with
her family and perpetually surprised, amused,
and bewildered by her friends. She is a woman
with a pure and happy heart that no one will ever
be able to sully. Her insatiable appetite for life is
incomparable.

For every single variation in the color spectrum, she


has a corresponding smile. She will make you fall in
love with her, with life, with love, with a cup of iced
chocolate if only to make you see the boundless
beauty of this world. She can change the world in a
heartbeat and doesn’t even know it.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 135


Miguel Antonio
Nograles Lizada

There are those writers whose works just belong


on the shelf. Migoy is not one of those people. He
can write about the tribes from his native Davao
or champorado – stuff that can make formalists go
crazy. (Jefry Canoy, Cervini roommate)

His life empitomizes passion. He conveys himself in


mystery and in truth. He is a poet and a dreamer of
rainbows. (Rois Tan, Seattle’s Best roommate)

A genius before his time, he opens his mouth and


everyone goes silent. More than a literary expert,
Migoy is a true friend and a reliable kuya. (Michelle
Ancheta, Migoy’s sister from a different mother and
father)

Which excerpt best describes him? (a) I am the


scholar of the dark armchair. Branches and rain
hurl themselves at the windows of my library; (b) He
was a pious man who knew how to ask questions.
“How can you see your life unless you leave it?”
he said to me; or (c) Aren’t lovers/always arriving at
each other’s boundaries? – /although they promised
vastness, hunting, home.” (Vincenz Serrano, English
11/12 professor)

136 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Karen Lyn
Albelda Lopena

Isang makulay na kuwentista, gitarista,


manunulat, makata, at mananayaw na walang
ibang hinangad sa buhay kung hindi ang
magmahal at tumawa. Kapag walang magawa,
kukunin niya ang gitara at walang anu-ano’y
makagagawa ng mga nakabobobong kantang
madalas ay tungkol sa bahaghari o sa kung ano
mang nilikha ng kanyang hindi maipaliwanag
na imahinasyon. Nagpapakalunod siya sa mga
libro upang mapuntahan ang mga lugar na hindi
pa niya nararating at tuluyang malimutan ang
masasamang alaala sa kawalan. Gusto lamang
niyang ipamukha sa mundo na buhay na buhay ang
panitikan at sana’y hindi makalimutan ng lahat ang
kapangyarihang taglay ng pagbabasa.

Tara, tawa tayo na parang ang pagtawa lamang ang


dahilan ng buhay.

Hahaha. Hanggang lagutan ng hininga.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 137


Sara Regina
de Jesus Marquez

Sara (without an “h”, mind you) is not only a know-


it-all, she’s also a do-it-all: artist, writer, trendsetting
fashionista, make-up guru, trilingual diplomat,
grammar police, travel agent, tour guide, saint, pro
bono life coach, and (of course) foremost advocate
of true love. As a stage actress, she has time and
time again wowed the world with her boundless
passion and talent, exuding confidence and flair.

And as if that weren’t enough, all are captivated


by her effortless wit, charm, and the hysterical
animation with which she makes kwento about
her amazing life – which could include anything
from encounters with salesladies from hell to wild
escapades through the streets of Hong Kong and
Madrid to being wined and dined by mysterious
hotties from far-flung kingdoms. Or perhaps, being
the sexy Ginger Spice that she is, these tales could
also be about belting out “Wannabe” with the rest
of the Cebu Spice Girls, plotting how to win the
First Friday Treaty or simply dancing the night away.

You will never ever find anyone like our beloved


Zara Rehina de Jethuth Marqueth. The truth is that
one page of adjectives will never be enough. We
thank her for always being the one who bugs you
until you say “yes” to a gimik; the one who says that
“you can do it!” whenever you feel that you don’t
have enough to go on; and the one who, at the end
of your (as well as her) tiresome day, will find the
time to sit down with you, offer her shoulder and
never-ending nuggets of wisdom, asking for nothing
in return.

138 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Susana Nelly
Gengos Onglatco

If there is one person who is as twisted as Jessica


Zafra’s mind, it would have to be San-San. In fact,
if this effervescent yet sarcastic Cebuana decides
to publish her own book someday, superlative
words ought to be attached to the word “twisted”
since there is no simplistic way to characterize her.
San-San’s mere presence is enough to transform
a noisy jam-packed room to stillness – raise that to
the nth power when she starts talking. Her booming
voice is enough to register seismic readings on the
Richter scale. But more than being known for her
booming voice, San-San is a fine actress, a writer,
a movie buff, a food connoisseur, a storyteller, and
a director. The list can go on to infinity for she is a
pastiche of everything in this universe.

San-San is amusement, in all its levels, personified.


She is a teddy bear that everyone loves to hug,
even by those who have just met her. She just
naturally wins everyone’s hearts. She gives one of
the best impersonations of Macy Gray and other
famous and infamous personalities. She messes
up lyrics and ends up composing new songs.
24 hours, 365 and ¼ days, or 100 years are not
enough to compress all the fun that is San-San.

She is a great friend who will fight your battles for


you. No matter how twisted the road ahead may be,
you can always count on her to be there for you,
with tons of laughter to share along the way.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 139


Abigail Salgado Pichel

I shall be telling this with a sigh


Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – 
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

- Robert Frost, “The Road Not Taken”

140 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Pamela
Peralejo Punzalan

“Her name is Pamela P., Boss. Everyone knows her


by the name Kae.”

Aidan took another look at her portfolio, wondering


how a sweet-looking girl like her could even wield
such a Gift. For the last four years he had been
searching for someone whose gift was to change
reality at her whim. Who knew that it would be this
lovely girl with a smile that reached her ears? Who
knew that this Kae would be the Story Weaver?

“She looks really cute, Boss, and she’s quite a lively


kid too.” Blake read the report to Aidan the Weaver,
revealing to him Kae’s little world. To everyone,
she was just a girl who loved reading stories. She
passionately flipped through her comics, faithfully
followed her anime series, endlessly shared time
and chitchat with friends, and burned her eyebrows
over Marcel. She skipped, hopped, hugged, and
loved. To many, she appeared to be a silly girl with
a very giddy giggle who wore black and cargo too
often. To her friends though, time with her was like
being taken away to another world. She told tales of
invincible assassins, a livid boy of 16, a cloistered
goth wannabe trying to make an impression, and a
man who could not forget his past.

Aidan knew very well what this girl had done to him.
She had crafted his world and changed his reality.
He reached for her file and looked at the face that
made his name. “Say Blake, if you do get to contact
her, tell Kae thanks and I owe her a bowl of ramen.”

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 141


Christina Maria Cecilia
Mirasol Sayson

Christina Maria Cecilia M. Sayson is a female homo


sapien. She was born in 1987, in the arbitrarily
defined geo-political area called “the Philippines”.
Thus far, she has shown no megalomaniacal
tendencies; although there have been reports that
she intends to overthrow the Earth’s world order
and establish her own sometime in the future.
Investigations into the veracity of these reports
are currently ongoing. Christina Maria Cecilia M.
Sayson also enjoys talking about herself in the third
person and telling far-flung untruths.

142 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Antonio Francisco
Zulueta, Jr.

Jaton is a freak of nature who initiates a lot of


absurd talk, much of which are products of his
hyper-observant tendencies and ability to find
humor in everything and everyone. His default
facial expression is a suspicious grin (although
he looks more like a confused lost kitten during
more stressful days). People often find themselves
laughing at his anecdotes, quoting his metaphors,
and speaking his lingo. Having grown up in a
house full of sisters has made him the frustrated
gentleman that he is. He can usually get away with
anything – from parking in all the illegal spots to
winning a girl’s affection – due to his sneaky ways
and exceedingly charming, polite speech.

Jaton fits the concept of cool in the ridiculous


sense of the word, a bandless rock star in never-
ending corduroys and a flag-football player injured
from battling a big black man ten times his size.
The only thing more ridiculous than this is how
the romantic in him rationalizes things in such a
way that everything becomes a love story. There is
nothing quite like meeting an undeniably talented
writer who is as hopelessly enamored with love as
Jaton is. More than anything, he writes for a love
of something – of simple songs to his love affair
with music; of his frustrated dreams of being in a
rock band to his fulfilled and inspired outlook on
relationships; of his secret quirks to the ideas and
ambitions he hopes for those outside of himself.

Jaton’s the best kind of weird, the best kind of freak


of nature. We all love him for it.

AB L ITERATU RE (EN GL IS H ) 143


AB Literature (Filipino)
146
Patricia Jo
Chuatico Agarrado

She gets such a kick out of the fact that her last
name means “mean and close-fisted” in Spanish.
However, those who know Tish will tell you that she
is anything but that.

For the last four years, Tish has unselfishly shared


her time and energy with those around her – editing
drafts of papers, giving last-minute tutoring
sessions-slash-pep talks before long tests, sharing
long conversations, and exchanging even longer
letters. She always has an interesting story to tell,
but she would rather listen to yours.

This generosity extends to her life as a student. She


probably won’t be the one raising her hand but she
always listens attentively and thinks about what
everyone is saying. She goes the extra mile for her
organizations as well. Whether it’s tutoring the kids
she adores (who adore her as well) or organizing
documentation and keeping files in order, she
overflows with joy and enthusiasm; infecting those
around her to get the job done.

Tish hasn’t lived up to her name – and how we thank


God for that. In her quiet, simple way of sharing
herself, Tish has helped us see how beautiful
everything can be.

AB L ITERATU RE (F IL IP IN O) 147
AB Philosophy
150
Leo Michael
Chan Baterina

Mike is…

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 151
Elfred Ulysses de
Guzman del Rosario

Height: 5’7’’ (as of 1Q 2007)


Weight: 110 lbs. (as of 1Q 2007)
Marital Status: abnormally complicated
Hobbies: making statues out of…[CLASSIFIED]
Favorite Food: those of reddish color
Favorite Sport: boxing or simply hitting things
Favorite Film: [CLASSIFIED]

Born of parents.
Lived in houses of varied magnitude.
Went to places of varied temperature and climate.
Has been through times, up and down.
Shuts down every now and then.
Has consumed enough alcohol to burn this country.
Has shed enough blood to build it.
Has been mistaken for Hard Gay and/or Mr. Bean.
Has considered playing Hard Gay and/or Mr. Bean.
Enjoys very much the company of the opposite sex.
Enjoys very much the company of beer.
Enjoys very much being in the service of
others – especially the opposite sex.

152 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Josemaria
Martin Hizon

It could be said that other people know you better


than you know yourself, so I’ve allowed them to
speak on my behalf as frankly as possible. My
own words aren’t enough to shed light on my full
identity. May their words create a better picture of
myself than I could ever portray.

Jomar does not ask questions about what he


has to do, he does it and then he philosophizes.
Matiyaga siya sa mga makukulit na tao, hindi niya
dinededma. Nakikinig talaga siya, ang galing! He’s a
walking blog. Kung hindi siya maasahan, wala nang
maaasahan pang iba sa mundo. (Isay Roque)

Jomar is gay in the sense that he is not and so he


allows himself to be called as such – a true man
indeed. Bading! (Kakin Santos)

Joms is the master philosopher who seems to know


all the other philosophers, even the most obscure
ones that no one else has ever heard of. He has
a passion for learning and for applying the things
he’s learnt. He’s the most dependable friend one
can ever have, someone who’ll really be there for
anything any time. (Aubrey Martin)

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 153
Philip Ryan
Najera Junginger

Patience.
Persistence.
Perseverance.
Pacing.
Percussion.
Progressiveness.
Philosophy.
Procrastination.
(Is there a word for beer that starts with the letter P?)
Pagkain.
Prawn.
Purple.
Paris (the car).
Panda.
Penguin.
Praning.
Pagong (itaob!).

154 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Gerard Tayengco Lao

This dude is one of the (pa)coolest people in school.


His friends refer to him as (pa)gwapo, (pa)macho,
and [feeling] chickboy all the time, but despite these
nicknames, he remains (pa)humble and (pa)down-
to-earth. He likes to hang out in the cafeteria with
his high school brothers to joke and talk about
different things. A very (pa)loyal and (pa)trustworthy
person, anybody would be (un)lucky to have him as
a friend. Haha. (Gelo Cunanan)

He may appear as the silent, brooding type but


he is truly the opposite of his façade. He always
has something to share and can crack you up
with his witty remarks. He also has a weird way of
expressing his malambing side – punching people
at the back or cuffing people’s necks with his arm.
All these aside, Gerry is sensitive and real. You just
have to dig really deeply. (Kristine Tiu-Laurel)

From a distance to up close, from strangers to


friends, Gerry Lao exudes mystery and sex appeal.
Yes, Gerry has a face that makes women swoon
and a body that is just as sinful. (Gino Banson)

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 155
Martin Kristopher
Ramos Limgenco ll

At first glance, he may seem arrogant, pompous,


and even snobbish. However, looks can be
deceiving for he is neither. Martin, or more
appropriately, Macky, is known and fancied
for being a fun-loving and easygoing guy. He
has a flexible personality that readily suits and
immediately adjusts to the different characters he
mingles with. He has a knack for making people
around him immediately smile and laugh.

However, Macky also knows when to be serious.


He has a strong will to succeed which brings about
his sense of competitiveness. But of course, we all
know that Macky is competitive only 30% of the
time – most likely during varsity games or when in
class. The other 70% is the Macky we all know and
love – a joker with a big heart and a great source
of fun and laughter, he is always willing to lend a
helping hand to a friend or even a stranger. The
taga-tagay at drinking parties who occasionally
blurts out his philosophies in life to advise a ka-
bench in need. Finally, Macky is a kuya. Whether
it be on the volleyball court for his teammates, at
home for his siblings, or at gimiks with his barkada,
Macky is the type of guy who takes care of his
family and friends – the one who’ll carry you out of
the bar and take you home safely when you get
drunk to make sure you’ll be all right.

Macky is a superman…no, rather, a super friend.


So folks, this is who Macky is. All of the above and
absolutely more, more, and more!

156 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Joseph Anthony
Infante Malaya

J-Jolly, O-Outstanding, S-Steadfast, E-Enthusiastic,


P-Powerful, H-Humble! That’s the best way to
shout out his name! There is never a dull moment
with this chap; he’s a factory of jokes that can
make you laugh even in your bluest hours. You’d be
surprised to discover that he oozes with sense and
sensibility despite his happy-go-lucky personality.
You’d be astonished to realize the deepness of this
guy’s thoughts, which always invite you to take a
journey into the depths of his soul.

He’s the embodiment of the ideal family man: a


respectful and obedient son to his parents, a loving
brother, an understanding grandson, and a playful
uncle. He’s a friend magnet, a bank of good advice,
simple, very approachable, and someone you can
truly count on! He loves with intensity, fights with
perseverance, loses with grace and humility, and
fails with hope.

He isn’t afraid to admit if he’s wrong and always


supports his friends in the things that mean the
world to them. He may criticize their faults, but
always with the best intentions and their betterment
in mind. He has a very compassionate heart;
although he may not admit it, he is easily moved
and quick to tears when he sees people hurting
and suffering. But dry your tears now, Joe, for
you’ve conquered the great mountains of Ateneo
Philosophy! Now fly higher and reach for the stars,
but be sure to always come back to earth to unfold
and to share with us the mysteries, joys, and pains
that you’ve encountered! Congratulations!

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 157
Strawberry Anne
Aubrey Bernardo
Martin
Her tough, boyish exterior hides the true nature of
this girl’s heart: a softie (not admittedly, of course),
a sucker for clean-shaven guys with brains, and
someone with a strange yet endearing fetish for
all things sheep-ish – literally. Aubs is a woman of
principle – something that you can’t readily say
about most people her age. She knows what she
stands for and sticks by it without question. She’s
also very level-headed and always calm; even
though it’s easy to make her laugh, it’ll take you
years of effort to make her cry.

Aubs is a super dork who’ll never admit to having


studied hard enough for an oral exam or quiz, yet
who’ll also surprise you the moment scores are
out with a mark that’s three grades higher than
yours. You could say she thoroughly enjoys being
the Philosophy major that she is. A Padre Ferriols
fanatic, she has most probably never missed a
reading assignment and always finds ways of
applying profound philosophical insight to the
most mundane of conversations. She inspires
us because of her passion for Philosophy and
dedication to excellence, regardless of the hard
work involved. She knows what she wants and
goes ahead and gets it. That’s why it won’t come
as a surprise if Aubs becomes a successful lawyer
or anything for that matter. She doesn’t only have a
great brain, but also guts of steel; most importantly,
she has the heart to succeed.

158 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Mabelle Ortiz Nebres

Mabs is one of the liveliest people you could ever


meet. She never runs out of stories to tell. Her
boisterous laughter and exaggeratedly enunciated
expressions make her more amusing. She makes
random animal sounds. She keeps you up before a
test, not to study though, but up anyway. She goes
gaga over Korean soaps, babies, and boys with a
mekaniko built. She loves music and dancing. She
can make everything feel better the moment you
hear her talk. She is one heck of a procrastinator.
She’s love- and boy-crazy but she’s not easy. She
deeply loves literature and writing. She likes being
around people, a social butterfly who manages
to keep her sanity despite being active in school
organizations. She loves Padre Ferriols! She
loves her family so much. She’s a fair person who
doesn’t take sides when her friends fight. She
suspends judgment about people even when they
are obviously creeps, that sometimes people think
she’s naïve. She’s generally nice to others but she’s
not a pushover; she’ll stand up for herself when she
knows the other person is wrong. She’s a strong
person despite her easygoing image. Even though
she’s jovial and talkative, she’s reserved about the
things she holds closest to her heart.

Mabs is indeed the tinkle of little bells in a mayday.


Nothing seems to daunt her spirits, may it be
Milenyo, Ricoeur, or Foucault. She’s everyone’s little
miss sunshine who never ceases to put a smile on
your face – oink!

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 159
Anna Francesca
Carpio Respicio

Cheska is the friend you’d want to get stuck in


traffic with (especially when she’s the one who’s
driving). When you’re all alone, Che can be your
1-800-CHEER – she’s definitely got a knack for
shedding light in the direst of situations. She cooks
for you when you’re hungry, drives for you when
you’re tired and sleepy, fills in for you when you
need to be in two places at the same time – even
though she’s busy herself. Like a box of crayons
(and I mean the complete Crayola box with weird-
named colors like Purple Mountain Majesty), Che
brightens up anything she comes across…and I
mean anything! Be it problems or a boring day,
Cheska’s there to save the day!

The very person she is to her family and friends


already makes her extraordinary but that’s not all…
Cheska is a living hero! She’s a person of passion
and purpose. Her faith in God is so strong that it
translates into love of country and fellowmen. As
a matter of fact, Cheska sacrificed her debut to
build a home for a family in Payatas instead. She
constantly goes to calamity-stricken places, like
Gabaldon and Leyte, to give people hope by simply
being there and sincerely loving them. Cheska has
a heart that knows how to love, a mind that thinks
about things beyond herself, hands that give until
they hurt, a mouth that speaks of goodness, and
arms that embrace the weak and down-trodden.

In a nutshell, Cheska shines…just the way a child


of God should.

160 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Ray Simon de la
Cruz Roderos

Philosophy student. Environmentalist. Backpacker.


Turtle lover. Woh!

At first glance, Monch’s penchant for turtles (Ninja


Turtles in particular) would throw off the average
person and make them think that he is downright
absurd. Well, actually, he is. Don’t be surprised if,
while you’re peacefully walking around Ateneo, a
crazed boy comes out of nowhere and whispers
ominously, “Itaob ang pagong!” That’s just his way
of saying something profound, like challenging the
status quo. Monch’s turtlephilia has turned him
into one. Just like a turtle, Monch is never rash
but always slow and careful in making decisions.
Although he’s dependable, beware, for this turtle
is a closet-disciplinarian, time-freak, and master of
efficiency so he gets grumpy and snaps back when
you’re late, lazy, or inefficient.

A man of character, Monch has worked his way


through college with his existence always preceding
his essence (you’ll have to ask him what that
means). All in all, Monch is a natural leader and a
man of principle who will never mince words when
it comes to standing up for what he believes in.

The future is bright for this young man and you can
be sure that he will get there…eventually. After all,
it is the sure and steady tortoise that makes it in the
end. That’s Monch, the hero in a half-shell.

Plod on, turtle! Plod on.

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 161
Maria Florencia Alicia
Chung Santos

Kax will blow your mind with deep conversations,


vivacious moves and daring style. She’s everyone’s
quasi-psychiatrist and lawyer because of her
ability to remember lessons from three semesters
ago and listen to even the most boring teachers.
Her passion for learning drives her to ask a lot
of questions and to speak her mind. Her strong
personality seeps through even the most thick-
skinned bloke. Her sort-of-psychotic ways are
actually just cover-ups for her brilliant philosophical
mind. Kax is a very open person. She often tries
new things, be the latest food craze in town or the
hottest hairstyle to hit magazine covers.

As a friend, Kax is as real as it gets. She will always


provide amazing advice and a shoulder to lean on.
She is also brutally honest enough to hit you on
the head when you get cuckoo! As a lover, Kax is
faithful and committed – two qualities essential in
keeping a relationship.

Some people say that she eats books for breakfast,


others have heard dorks call her “queen”. With
qualities like these, it is impossible to have a boring
day with the one and only Kakin Santos.

Dum spiro spero, dum spero vivo.

162 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Michelle Carisse
Natividad Suarez

Mitch is one of those people who can never get


bored even when she’s alone without the help of a
Sarsi float: (1) she can sing very well (well enough
to score extra points on one of our demanding
subjects), (2) she can impersonate every single
person she knows, (3) she can make animal sounds
(even toy sounds) – land, air or sea creatures – name
it and she can do it, (4) she can try to dance, (5) and
she can replay the scenes or lines of movies she’s
seen in her head. These just go to show how much
fun you can have hanging out with her.

She has a contagious passion for life and laughter.


She never seems to be afraid of experiencing new
things or sharing her life with people. She’s one of
those people you’ll enjoy talking to because she
has a subtle way of opening your eyes to different
things. She has a confident manner of speaking
that wins your attention. Mitch hides her dorkiness
by appearing to be busy and she never gets
annoyed no matter how much the rest of us tease
her. She’s very intelligent, proven by how she says
she hasn’t studied but gets A’s on oral examinations
anyway.

She has a genuine smile that reflects her genuine


soul. It’s beautiful. What I love most about Mitch
though is her unwavering faith and her passion to
introduce Christ into people’s lives. She inspires me
to be a more responsible Christian and a stronger
believer.

AB P H IL OS OP H Y 163
Maria Janille
Mata Torres

Everyone wants to live in a perfect world. Some


say it doesn’t exist. What those people don’t know
is that a certain person is already living in that
utopia – a place where leopards named George
have big feet and snore when they sleep, where
penguins wear scarves to keep warm, and where
candy-coated raindrops fall to the earth. Unlike the
rest of us who see the world in black and white, she
sees everything through rose-colored glasses. No,
this does not mean that she has thrown aside all
form of limitation and restraint, but that her world
is more beautiful than what we are used to. This
gift separates her from all those caught up in the
rat race of life. When asked why she sees life this
way, the same answer is always given: “because life
should be beautiful”. It may seem that viewing the
world this way is living a lie, but who really knows
what life should be? Always intent in sharing her gift
to everyone, she always has a smile on her face.

But do not let this give you a false conclusion on


how she projects her happiness to the world. No,
she is not euphoric. Rather than blind idealism, she
displays what one would call colorful optimism.
Always striving to achieve the highest form of any
endeavor with effortless perfection, she lives by
being without the angst of becoming. Always open
to what life will give her and not clinging to the
constructs of the self, she lives without resisting
change, making life a beautiful experience. A
unique person who will always be there, she will
help you remember how to dream.

164 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


165
AB Philosophy: Pre-Divinity Track
168
David Saul
Blanco Adriatico

As his name suggests, it is not without a thought


of mystery that one speaks of Magic. One is often
left to wonder what his gaze is trying to say and
whether his smile spells charm or mischief. But
beneath that seemingly pasaway image is a man
full of passion for life. His constant search for
adventure has given him a myriad of stories to
tell. Magic is attuned to the beauty of the world,
which is something he does not fail to share
with the people he holds dear. A leader, athlete,
musician, poet, and orator – the width and diversity
of his interests and talents can astound you. A
philosopher at heart, he can confound you with an
entire spectrum of inquiries, from the most trivial
of questions to the kind that keeps you awake at
night. He is principled and firm, willing to take on
an argument which he feels so strongly about. And
although he fails to recognize it at times, all of these
make him a good leader, worthy of admiration.

Magic is a web of ironies people are delighted to


get entangled in. His ever so thoughtful and caring
ways, coupled with an inherent amiable aura, can
always ease the heavy hearts of friends and loved
ones. However, be careful not to make his blood
boil; otherwise, you’ll get a dose of his straight-to-
the-heart one-liners if not a roundhouse to the face
from this yaw-yan enthusiast. This neat-freak, über-
OC guy is also gifted with skill in various sports, but
perhaps what people cannot deny is Magic’s zeal
for service to God and people, especially those who
are in most need of…some Magic…

AB P H IL OS OP H Y: P RE-D IVIN ITY TRAC K 169


Leo Martin Angelo
Ruiz Ocampo

Matapos ang 30 na Istasyon ng Krus, 75 na


Rosaryo at 80 na Nobena sa iba’t ibang Santo,
tumungo sa Banahaw, lumuhod at dasalin ang
sumusunod na Litanya…

Panalangin para sa Kaluluwa


(na Sumasakatawan) ni Leo Ocampo

Pari: Santa Cecilia, nawa’y manatiling mala-


anghel ang pag-awit ni Leo; Santo Tomas, nawa’y
ipagpatuloy ni Leo ang pagpapakadalubhasa sa
Pilosopoya, Teolohiya, at sa pagsagot sa Game Ka
na Ba?; San Ignacio de Loyola, nawa’y mabawasan
ang pagiging pasaway ni Leo; San Juan dela Cruz,
nawa’y huwag kang magpatalo sa galing ni Leo
manalangin; San Judas Tadeo, nawa’y magbawas
si Leo ng kinakain; San Vicente de Paul, nawa’y
manatili ang pagiging mapagkawang-gawa ni Leo
kahit sa kanyang regency; Santa Teresita del Niño
Jesus, nawa’y manatiling payak at masiyahin si
Leo; San Lorenzo Diakono, nawa’y patuloy na
pahalagahan ni Leo ang mahihirap; Santa Maria
Goretti at San Benito ng Nursia, dalawa na kayong
dinadasalan namin dahil minsan malubha ang
pagiging bastos ni Leo; Sto. Niñong Berde ang
Damit, nawa’y umunlad ang mga magiging negosyo
ni Leo tulad ng kanyang sari-sari store sa San Jose;
San Jose, nawa’y patuloy na maging mapagmahal
na lalaki si Leo; Santa Maria, tumibay pa nawa ang
pananampalataya ni Leo sa Diyos.

Tugon: Ipanalangin niyo Kami. Luwalhati…Amen.

170 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Joseph Don
Decena Zaldivar

Dahil sa kanyang itim na pantalon, puting t-shirt,


balat na sandalyas, mahabang payong, file bag,
matabang anyo, at seryosong mukha, laging
napapagkamalang isang pari, guro, o propesyunal
si JD. Pero, kapag nagsimula na siyang
magkuwento tungkol sa mga bagay-bagay – maging
metaphysics, phenomenology, o yaong mga walang
kabuluhan – mabibisto na isa lang siyang typical na
teenager na nahihirapan ding manatili sa loob ng
silid-aralan o simbahan.

Gayunman, nagsisikap si JD na maging mabuting


miyembro ng lipunan sa pamamagitan ng taos-
pusong pag-aaral, panalangin, pag-eehersisyo, at
pagdidiyeta; kahit minsan nakakalimutan niya ang
mga ito, lalo yung huling dalawa.

Siguro dahil ito sa kanyang kagustuhan na ubusin


ang oras at lakas sa pakikitungo sa iba kaysa sa
kanyang sarili.

Sa pakikiramay sa kaibigan niya, pwede siyang


maging maingay na bungangero o tahimik na
tagapakinig. Kapag nakikipag-usap ka sa kanya
nang malalim, akala mo nasa counselling session
ka; at kung mababaw naman, akala mo nasa
tagayan ka. Kapag naman sabog o bangag siya,
lumalabas ang kakulitan at nakakapagpatawa siya
kahit na hindi niya sinasadya.

Yan si JD, halo siya ng marami bagay pero iisa pa


rin ang pakatao.

AB P H IL OS OP H Y: P RE-D IVIN ITY TRAC K 171


BFA Creative Writing
174
Louise Andrea
Sablan Bacoy

Sundays too my father got up early


and put his clothes on in the blueblack cold,
then with cracked hands that ached
from labor in the weekday weather made
banked fires blaze. No one ever thanked him.

I’d wake and hear the cold splintering, breaking.


When the rooms were warm, he’d call,
and slowly I would rise and dress,
fearing the chronic angers of that house,

Speaking indifferently to him,


who had driven out the cold
and polished my good shoes as well.
What did I know, what did I know
of love’s austere and lonely offices?

- Robert Hayden, “Those Winter Sundays”

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 175


John Santy
Bayona Calalay

“It is with curiosity that one thinks of him. Perhaps


it is in this state of mind, where no definitive answer
is made, that one can best approach him. A walking
anomaly with impeccable taste, he has a natural
sense of style, inventive altruism, and a penchant
for rarities that is a constant source of wonderment
for those around him. For the depth of a well,
shaped black like a boy, there are no words, no
feelings to express. The eyes, the twist of the lips,
that’s enough,” said the four women writers who
knew him. Not his words at all!

176 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jaclyn Desiree
Ong Chua

People who hear Jacky’s name probably picture


her as a typical porcelain-skinned chinita walking
around timidly in a fitted tank top and mini-skirt.
Don’t let the girly name fool you. If you did, you’d
never guess that Jacky is the type of girl who snuck
out of a debut early to travel seven hours to climb
the second highest mountain in the Philippines,
spent an entire afternoon shooting hoops at the
covered courts, and almost single-handedly
organized the first ever Ateneo Aquathlon. In fact,
this responsible, dedicated, and hardworking
girl was the Loyola Mountaineers’s previous
Quartermaster and current Vice President.

Jacky’s open, perky personality and quirks will


endear her to you. She may seem a bit loud and
overly friendly at first but you’ll quickly discover
she’s a true friend who will do everything she
possibly can to help you out – whether it’s coaching
you through what seems like an impossible fifteen-
kilometer run, accompanying you when you need
to have a blood test taken, or just being there when
you need someone to talk to. Although there are
some days when it seems as if her eyes are about
to burst from stress, she’s always game for fun
things, may it be spontaneous trips to UP for isaw,
expeditions to Tiendesitas or Divisoria, or being
crowned as “Baduy Dress Day Queen”.

It’s not that I’m saying that Jacky can’t pass for a
meek Chinese beauty. What I’m saying is that even
if she tried her best to look like one, she’ll still be a
whole lot more than just that.

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 177


PH Hermelina
Ubaldo Chua

Not all mysteries are meant to be solved. The


best, in fact, are the ones we leave unraveled.
Untouched, they push us outside of our picket-
fenced consciousness, an undercurrent pulling us
away from the seductive mainstream of passionless
thought. A mystery is forever separate from man’s
reason for it is in this divide that a mystery contains
its beauty.

In a most ethereal manner, mysteries show us,


with heartbreaking simplicity, that we humans
are limited. They remind us that, past the medals
earned and battles won, beyond the horizon our
well-trained eyes have taught us to see, is an
infinite realm of unknowns. No matter how much
of the universe we seem to have grasped in our
lifetimes, there is always that which escapes us,
like the sand unaccounted for that slips through our
fingers. The mysteries of our lives are those arrows
that point us to the never before seen fugitives.
They are the lights that shine on the truths that,
indubitable as they are, have yet to be written.

PH is one of the finest unsolved mysteries of this


generation. In her dignified stillness, her childlike
wide eyes, her soul speaks eloquently. Her art is
a puzzle that talks to us: of the fathomless space
existing between demons and angels, gods and
monsters – and the ability of man to transcend it.

178 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Sunaina Ishwarlal
Dargani

It is said that you should always keep a close eye


on the quiet ones, because some day they will
inevitably break out of their circle of naiveté and
reveal the greatness that lies within. Sona might
still be quiet at times, but don’t be fooled – once
you get her going, good luck getting her to stop.
It’s amazing how much she has to say even after
writing fifty pages worth of personal thoughts and
experiences down for her thesis, but who can
blame her? There’s far too much about her to be
able to put everything into words.

She won’t say no to an inuman session or to DVD


marathons of 24 (wink, wink). She certainly won’t
hesitate to lend a helping hand to those who need
it. Spending time with her is always interesting. Her
life is a series of unfortunate events, but the kind of
“unfortunate” that’s just plain funny. Ask her about
the night she rolled down the grassy slope of the
UP Sunken Garden and her face will surely turn
crimson.

Sona is one of a kind. You can easily distinguish her


from other Ateneans because, well, she’s Indian.
Of course, this isn’t the only thing that makes her
special – beware of her eerie, trailing limbs that can
contort in ways you never knew possible. She’s also
forever lost, physically and mentally, which would
probably explain the number of minor accidents
and slip-ups she always gets herself into. But that’s
all in a day in the life of Sona. There’s nothing she
can’t handle.

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 179


Marielle Irene de la
Cruz de la Cruz

By the time this comes out, Mayene would have


graduated with honors as everyone expected.
She has impressed teachers and colleagues
throughout a superb academic career. Her sense
of responsibility – which borders on the obsessive-
compulsive – has become the stuff of legend. But
scholastic success will never be enough to show
how much of an overachiever she really is. To the
few lucky enough to be called her friends, she’s
more than the girl who simply has to beat the
deadline instead of just meeting it like everyone
else.

Report cards won’t say anything about the


chocolate bars and strips of seaweed she sneaks
in during class or how she, generous as she is,
always offers us a bite. It’s doubtful that her A’s will
honor her habit of giving out gifts (1) without need
for an occasion and (2) a couple of months earlier
than she’s supposed to when there actually is one.
A diploma won’t talk about her profound mastery of
words or how her talent in writing is only matched
by her artistry in the kitchen. Honors can’t say
enough about the brilliantly creative mind behind
her jokes and eccentricities or the playful mischief
beneath her calm mask of silence.

Great as she was as the model student, it just won’t


do for that to be the only thing she is remembered
for. So here’s to you, Mayene. This one’s for the
record.

180 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jemimah Adrielle
dela Rosa y
Punongbayan
Society teaches us to stay away from clichés. No
one wants to see the same things over and over
again. As a result, we have all become runners in a
race to become the newest, the brightest, and the
most original of each picking.

This is why Jem is so refreshing. She does not


promise to be the quirkiest, the craziest, or the
most creative of the bunch. She is not obsessed
with being edgier than the latest innovation nor is
she smitten with the drama of constant and drastic
change. Jem is the antithesis of this pretentious
mask we wear to let the world know how hip and
modern we are.

Whereas we cut each other’s throats in our race to


become rich and famous, Jem walks along at her
own pace. She does not need to be daftly original
just to prove herself to the rest of the world. She is
perfectly comfortable with the way she is. With her
bright eyes, her ladylike demeanor, and her honest-
to-goodness stellar writing, Jemimah dela Rosa is
neither cliché nor breakthrough. She is undeniable
classic.

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 181


Joseph Dino
Fernandez Galindez

Much has been thought of Dino Galindez.

To some, he is a mystery. A loner, he rarely smiles


or speaks. When he does say something, it seems
too imaginative and profound to be understood.

Does he have some secret understanding of the


world? Some brilliant, mystic insight on the people
around him? Sadly, intriguing though he may be, it
has been difficult to verify.

Accounts vary extremely: it seems that Dino is a


mountain of contradictions. He looks so serious, so
perfectly stern, that few dare approach. Those that
know him agree that if he will warm up to anyone,
he does so only very slowly.

Our reporters caught him at an emotionally


vulnerable moment – lunch – and questioned him as
to whether any of it was true.

Shockingly, he revealed that he hardly smiled


because he had forgotten how. He hardly spoke
because, actually, he had nothing to say and could
not think of anything. His “profound” utterances
were really comments on the weather, only slurred
by too much karaoke.

In sum, our investigations revealed Dino Galindez


to be a pretty dull guy. In frustration, one of our
reporters asked if he had any wisdom he could offer
humanity, and so he gave them this: “Bite marks
may fade, but memories last forever.”

182 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Maria Eliza
Rubio Javier

If you’re looking for a specimen who accurately


epitomizes the perfect Ateneo fan, this girl has got
to be it. She can jump, wave her hands in the air,
scream, and lose her voice all before the second
half. Don’t even make the mistake of insulting her
favorite team lest you want to be physically and
verbally assailed. Stark crazy about the said team,
not only does she know each Ateneo cheer by
heart, she also goes to great lengths just to be able
to see her team in action. Never mind her busted
knee or sky-high fever, Mar absolutely refuses to
miss any of the Blue Eagles’s games. Off the court,
so to speak, this girl is as big a supporter of her
friends as she is of the Ateneo basketball team.

You can always depend on her to be there when


she says she’ll be there and she’s there when it
really matters. Always ready for a good laugh, you
can count on having “stupid fun” with this girl.
Not only that, she does everything she can for her
friends, never leaving them behind and instinctively
knowing what they need before they even say it.
Mar is one of the sweetest and most thoughtful
people one can ever meet. Fond of writing brief but
delightful messages on her friends’s notebooks and
planners, she has a unique way of making people
feel special and loved. Always ready to defend her
case or any of her friends’s, she’s never scared to
voice out her opinion or to talk in a loud voice for
that matter. As we like to put it, we hear her before
we even see her. Certainly our lives would be boring
without her.

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 183


Lionel Albert Dimla
Lopez-Dee

With a name as unique as Lionel, the first thing that


pops to mind is how to pronounce it properly. It’s
pronounced “Lion-nel”, as in lion – the animal that
emits kingly roars. Such a name goes hand in hand
with such a unique person.

Seldom in life will you meet a person who does not


wear masks. Lionel is one of them. He keeps an
open mind and is the type of friend people can be
real with, the type who can make you forget your
problems and make you laugh, the type who’d be
the first person you’d think of calling when you
want to hang out or try something new.

Aside from his OC-ness, Lionel’s adventurous


personality won’t bore you. He can transform
the most mundane things into the most
extraordinary – be it just listening to music or
watching a film. With him, everything seems less
dull and more colorful.

For someone who talks as much as Lionel, it’s hard


to believe that he listens just as much and does so
without judgment. His unflagging spirit, his ability to
work long hours without compromising excellence,
and his ability to remain cheerful even when angry
are what make him one of a kind. Lionel’s passion
for life and daring ways make him unforgettable.
Even with the many roles he plays – as a student, a
mentor, a writer, a brother, a son, and a friend – he
makes it a point to just be himself. And for those
who know him, that is more than enough.

184 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jezreel Aguilar Lucas

Jez is one of those guys you wouldn’t expect


to be the serious type because he never fails to
welcome you with his warm personality. His blissful
nature certainly confirms that a good hearty laugh
transcends all barriers. It is therefore not surprising
why this fun-loving person never ceases to make
others laugh and smile with some of his one-liners.

Beyond all the joviality, Jez is equally unwavering


in his commitment to realize his aspirations in
life and to touch other people’s lives. Beyond his
comical antics and dashboard abs lies a big heart
that is always ready to go the extra mile for a friend
and a strong mind that has endured innumerable
setbacks and continues to be an inspiration to
countless individuals.

Jez exudes an attitude that is guaranteed to


surmount all the obstacles that life may pose.
He braves through his journey with passion and
commitment. With a perfect mindset complemented
by the time-tested fundamental values of hard
work, diligence, and integrity, there is no reason not
so see him at the top of his game!

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 185


Katrina Ines Fojas Luna

Ang bawat sulyap, ngiti, yakap niya’y isang pag-


uumapaw na kusa’t buong-buo – walang pag-
aatubili, walang pinagkakait. At ikaw, pusong
bakal at lamig – wala kang laban sa paglagos ng
kanyang pag-ibig. Unti-unting natututunan nitong
kahiya-hiyang karuwagan na muling magbukas,
tumanggap, at magmahal. (Precious de Joya)

“Sino ka?” ang tanong niya ‘pag di ka kilala. Sino


nga ako? Akong kay bilis na maghabi ng salita,
eto’t natatameme sa pagsulat. Hindi man siya
ang pinaka sa pinaka, ang sukdol sa sukdulan,
siya sa kahuli-hulihan ang tatatak sa iyong isipan.
(Keywords: Sumasayaw ng pangalay, hip-hop.
Magaling gumawa ng kanta, kumanta’t mag-gitara.
Malambing kahit inis na. Mapagmahal kahit asar
na. Maintindihin, mahirap intindihin: musmos pa rin
ang salitang gamit sa mga dalaga nang karanasan.
Di nahihiya. Kapag napapahiya, nagsasabi ng
“Shy!” O kapag nawawalan ng pag-asa, “Cry!”
Umaamin ng pagkakamali sa pagsabi ng “Oo
nga, noh!” Maasikaso, madaling biruin, mahirap
talunin. Umaarte, di maarte. Kiti-kiti, bibo, game,
masiyahin, gumagala, malaya.) Tinopak at naglaro
ang Diyos sa paghubog kay Ina. At dito, nais ko na
lang Siyang parangalan. Mas madaling gawin kaysa
subukang higupin, sakupin, ikulong sa kataga
ang “pangyayaring” si Ina. Wala akong laban. Pati
pagsusulat ko. Sabi ni Ms. Morales, magaling ako
sa ganito. Pero pagmasdan: wasak, magulo, parang
binagyo. Shy! (John Torres)

186 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Ethel Kay
Dimayuga Merioles

Kakai never assumed a stereotype. Heartthrob,


rocker, Dean’s Lister, slacker, athlete, rebel, artist,
loser – in college, every possible mold has been
forged. And in any of these, not once did Kakai fit.

Kakai turns her heart’s frailties into images that


bleed both subtlety and clarity and words that
reveal the beauty in pain. Art flows through her
veins; and though she bends blindly to life’s hairpin
turns, her work shows us that she never breaks.

In other words, she is the objective correlative. A


cynic romantic. Kakai is delightful misery, mad wit,
tragic laughter, tangible energy. Ordinary spaces
cannot contain her but she does not mind. More
than anything else, Kakai loves being free.

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 187


Maria Celeste
Icasiano Narvaez

“The artist is the creator of beautiful things.”


- Oscar Wilde

Should anyone invent a time machine in the future


and go back to Ateneo early in the 21st century,
one of the people to meet is Lili. She is a classic
beauty, a woman whose style is timeless, seen in
how she pairs quirky vintage clothing with modern
trends. Her confidence not only manifests itself
not only in the way she looks, but also in who she
is as a person. Unafraid to speak her mind when
others won’t dare to and uncaring of what others
may think, she never lets anyone convince her into
becoming less than what she could possibly be.

Few are endowed with vivid and powerful


imaginations and the ability to concretize them. Lili
creates beautiful things with her words, but none
more beautiful than her friendship with the people
around her as she is able to see and appreciate the
goodness and beauty in everyone and everything.

From her sharp sarcastic remarks to the random


songs she dramatically bursts into or to the way she
looks at you, Lili can sometimes intimidate people
without realizing it. But despite her tough exterior,
she’s really just a romantic with a big heart.

Fair, intense, flamboyant, and in-your-face, Lili is


someone you’re likely never to forget.

188 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Emilio Antonio
Villarosa Sta. Maria

So there you have it, Miyo is the greatest little


brother in the whole wide world. You ask him to
make you a sandwich, submit your homework,
buy you sanitary napkins, fetch your slippers, he’ll
do it all. I’m telling you, he’s the Kid Brother of the
Century.

He will listen to your incessant whining and


brainless rambling with his heart wide open. And
that heart, alas, he has tossed up into the wind so
many times only to have it plop back down and be
kicked around in the dirt. But he simply dusts it off
and goes on dreaming. Like the great Ghandi, he is
wise (sarcastic), peace-loving (sleeps like the dead,
mouth wide open), and emaciated (emaciated). He
is a knight in shining armor.

Knowing Miyo is like being given one of those


boxes with lots of hidden compartments, each
of which holds something of infinite value. Just
when you think you’ve got him all figured out,
he throws you in a loop and shows surprising
wisdom, heartwarming thoughtfulness, mind-
boggling creativity, eyebrow-raising confidence, or
an astounding capacity to love. He is truly God’s
creation – forever evolving, forever growing, forever
surprising.

I love you, Squirt. Go do more great deeds. You’ll


be awesome!

BFA C REATIVE WRITIN G 189


Rafael Guillermo
Tuazon Tanchoco

Alam ba ninyo…

…na ang pang-telenovelang pangalan ni Rafael


Guillermo ay pinaikli sa RG, na kadalasang
binabaybay naman na Argee, subalit karaniwang
maling nabibigkas na RJ o Archie, na nakasanayan
na subalit bahagyang kinaiinisan pa rin ni Rafael?
…na ang wastong paggamit at pagpapalaganap
sa wikang Filipino ang isa sa mga maigting na
pakikibaka ni Argee, kaya naman lubha niyang
ikinalulungkot ang alisangsang ng mga Atenista
kung susundin ang kaisipan ni Gat. Jose Rizal?
…na sa apat na taon ni RG sa Ateneo, sa SEC B
lamang siya hindi nagkaroon ng klase?
…na hindi alam ni Argee ang, at wala siyang
pakialam sa, awitin at cheers ng pamantasan?
…na mukha mang seryoso o malalim, puro korning
patawa, One Jump Ahead at iba pang kantang
Disney, at mga bagay na may kinalaman sa Harry
Potter lang ang nasa kukote ni RG?
…na bukod sa pamimilosopiya, ang tanging
natutuhan ni Argee sa Ateneo ay ang “yeah, to talk
in like coño English“ and “parang, this is so not
good, dude”?
…na si Rafael Guillermo raw ang konsensiya ng
kanyang barkada, tinitiyak niyang pipiliin ng mga
kaibigan niya ang tamang landas sa pamamagitan
ng pagsabi kung kailan sila lumalabis at kung kailan
sila dapat tumigil para mag-isip-isip? Subalit hindi
tulad ng pakikinig sa konsensiya, palagi naman
daw kalugud-lugod na makinig sa mga obhetibong
pananaw ni Argee. “Ngeeehh” ang tanging nasabi
ni RG nang malaman niya ito.

190 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


191
BFA Information Design
194
Marco Eric Gaisano
Ang de Leon

He brings to my mind many of the finer things


in life: Ragnarok, House, CSI, World of Warcraft,
computers, popular science, Bleach, popular
philosophy, Utawarerumono (I’ve never seen it nor
have any intention of doing so but it’s such a catchy
word), noodles, and other such things. I would
never talk so openly about these with anyone else
because doing so would evoke mocking smiles
and inspire others to curl their fingers and brand
themselves on the forehead with an L (for loser).
But I could always talk to Marco.

Maybe it’s because we have such similar interests


in matters that would induce a mental comatose
in some of the simpler anthropomorphs. Maybe
it’s because we’re cousins. I can’t exactly pinpoint
why. But whatever the reason, some of the
better moments in my college life were spent in
collaboration with Marco (in collaboration!). In my
first year, he introduced me to ACENT, we set up
our first offline Ragnarok server, and he inducted
me into the delights of the Katipunan restaurants
(Chicken Bacolod, World Topps, etc.). Mundane
things, I admit, but they were happy times. I know
Marco’s not perfect and, among many things,
he didn’t quite fit in with his batch. He didn’t like
basketball (an anathema for many anthropomorphs)
and spent, I think, way too much time downloading
TV and anime episodes. But I would be hard-
pressed to find somebody who wouldn’t say of him,
“Well there’s an honest, decent chap” (or something
to that effect; you know what I mean).

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 195


Jaydee Jenn Hui Chun

Jaydee Chun is the epitome of happiness. The


blissful smile tattooed on her Chinese face is
enough to turn frowns upside down. When you’re
feeling like it’s the End of the World, run to her and
feel free to cry your eyes out; she’s like a human
box of Kleenex that never runs out.

The way she walks is highly deceiving: she may


seem like a gruff bully but in reality she’s as kind
as Mother Theresa. This girl could probably make
hugging her profession since she “issues” hugs
24/7 to people who look like roadkill (?!) On the
other hand, when she talks, it’s like being in front of
a firing squad composed of trigger-happy machine
gun aficionados! She has a superhuman mouth
that spurts out an endless stream of kwento and
hirit. Apart from being a fiery character, Jaydee is
the ultimate G.I. (Genuine Intsik) – and a model G.I.
at that! She’s also an aspiring/inspiring artist who
doodles mercilessly on her notes like there’s no
tomorrow.

Jaydee is the mother hen of the ID juniors and two


confused IS juniors. She’ll make you feel right at
home among wacky friends who are just as warm
as she is. Jaydee is also the “bread-bringer” of the
group for she literally brings bread and butter to
class for everyone to share.

All in all, Jaydee is a Jill-of-all-happy-trades. Is


there still more to be said? Meet her and see for
yourself.

196 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Elinore Ria
Sta. Ana dela Cruz

O_O

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 197


Greg Joseph
Ginete Diaz

Ever heard of someone who had a voice so loud


that even videoke microphones couldn’t beat it?
Well, that’s Greg for you. He is the hyperactive
entity of the Information Design batch 2007,
roaming the corridors of CTC everyday, rattling
everyone from morning to night. Where you
hear laughter and see rowdiness, Greg is surely
around. If you think that that doesn’t leave him with
enough energy to accomplish his academics and
extracurricular activities though, then you are sadly
mistaken.

Greg is currently the Collegiate Society of


Advertising Vice President for Production.
Simultaneously handling different and difficult
clients for design and advertising, Greg also
manages to find the time to accomplish the varied
responsibilities that these entail successfully and
seamlessly despite the pressure of academics.

Greg is also a progressive musician. Having


played the guitar since sixth grade and rocked the
stage since high school, he has since honed and
developed his skills to play in bands like Dystopia
and Daily Trip. Fusing metal, jazz, reggae, funk,
hip-hop, and rock influences, he is able to create
unique musical harmonies which he shares with the
people around him. Representing the Ateneo, his
band Daily Trip finished as a one of the top picks
and as a finalist in the Nescafé Soundskool Battle
of the Bands in 2005 – proving how experienced
and devoted he is to his musical passion.

198 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Elmer del Rosario
Guinto

While college life certainly brings out the worst


in us – from missed submissions to enormous
eyebags and simply the tendency to fall fast
asleep in class – Elmer has bizarrely hurdled it all
with the help of who knows what. Elmer always
has a breezy and perky aura that never fails to
infect people and lighten up an otherwise gloomy
day. With wisecracks, useless trivia that seems
pretty vital when he mentions it, and in-depth
discussions about junk food and trashy talk shows,
Elmer always lightens the mood of any situation,
intentionally or not.

One of Elmer’s truly endearing qualities is his quick


wit and knack for aesthetics and visuals. He is
a genuine artist. Living life not for what it is but
living it as art is perhaps what makes him a cut
above the rest. Whether hanging out with friends,
performing magic with the use of pencil and paper,
or perfecting projects, Elmer makes it a point to be
the one in control of designing the blueprint of his
life and ultimately building it to continue to inspire
others.

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 199


Hazel Denise
de Ramos Karunungan

She flipped her hair absently, the silver chain


catching some of the strands before falling loosely
over her shoulders. Her companion was late and it
seemed that she had been waiting forever for the
supposed-knight-in-shining-armor to arrive. Faintly,
by the glow of the candle atop the pristinely white
and marble tabletop, the distinct black of her eyes
narrowed. Her mind was wandering, falling into a
trance as possibilities of tomorrow danced through
in a symphony that was only too fickle. She felt
the dementia ghostly creeping up her skin, pyrrhic
victories filling her mind. Was it worth it? Burning
four years of her life away only to wake up to the
reality of work and life and non-philosophy and
whateverness after all that hard work? Once more,
she shifted her position, daring to glare at the clock
that informed her she’d been waiting for far too
long now. Where in the world was her companion?
It was, after all, so much easier to think of how to
blame him for his lateness than it was going back to
thinking of the what-will-happen’s of tomorrow and
tomorrow after tomorrow and so on.

Ah, perhaps she was only going insane. That was


the biggest probability, she hoped.

Current mood:
Writer. And artist. And designer.

Always mood:
Addicted to sweets. Chronically afraid of clowns.

200 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Joan Charmaine
Victorino Lim

Always the center of attention, Joan has a warm


smile that never fails to brighten up anyone’s
day. Pretty, perky, and friendly, she never runs out
of stories about her bargain hunts, attesting to the
fact that she’s a true blue shopaholic.

She is someone who’ll never fail to surprise you.


One minute you’ll see her being really kikay, the
next thing you know, she’s playing basketball while
screaming her head off. She may seem soft on the
outside but Joan can be very strong-willed when
circumstances call for it. She is also one of the few
people who can get away with almost anything. Be
it her last-minute review for oral exams or haven’t-
studied-yet long tests, she amazingly still manages
to get high scores. Joan’s multi-talented too! She
can organize events, sing, cook, dance (a little), and
present herself well. Being the competitive person
and good leader that she is, she makes it a point
to accomplish all her responsibilities effectively,
always determined to make a mark for herself and
her team in everything she does.

Although her vanity is often misconstrued as self-


absorption, she is actually someone who is down-
to-earth and genuinely loving. She never passes an
opportunity to make those important to her happy
because doing so makes her happy as well. Loyal
and dependable, she is always there through both
the good and the bad and can always be counted
on for a good time. Truly, Joan is beautiful inside
out.

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 201


John Vincent
Cuevas Lucero

Finally,

after 6 years,
3 courses, 2 schools,
2 countries,
5 girlfriends, 2 heartbreaks,
4 cars, 1 apartment, 3 roommates,
2.5 millon pesos,
3 piercings, 1 hairdo,
2 jobs,
900,000 charged to experience,
2 spring breaks,
1 college football game,
1 acting stint,
4 barkadas,
6 weddings,
4 pairs of shoes,
1 gym,
4 tutors,
3 wallets,
5 cell phones,
and 1 diploma...

...with my protruding powers and fine touches,

I am done!

202 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Michael Ian Samson
Marchadesch

Truly a busy body, Ian has more on his hands than


the average 20-year-old. His years in Ateneo have
truly tested his ability to juggle his responsibilities
as a son, a friend, a student, and an athlete.

A caring and helpful son, he has an enviable


friendship with his parents. Ian, being a naturally
independent person, can often be seen alone
preoccupied with his own business. People are
initially too intimidated to approach him, yet those
who dare are surprised to learn that he is friendly
and goofy. Get to know him further and you’ll
hear about his impressive takes on life, love, and
everything in between.

Ian trains religiously and still manages to keep his


grades up. He comes to practice everyday with the
strong determination to run faster, jump higher, and
throw farther. Ian knows that his talent is nothing
without the passion to pursue it. Beyond the track
oval, he gets his creative juices flowing as soon as
he sits down in front of his iMac.

On the lighter side, Ian is like a child with life as his


playground. He is genuinely loyal and trustworthy
and is neither pretentious nor impractical. With
a personality as unique as his surname, Ian truly
breaks stereotypes. He is an athletic artist who is
both green and blue and an outgoing loner who is
happy-go-lucky yet reflective. Ian is simply a man
with an understanding heart and a good head on
his shoulders – these will surely take him places.

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 203


Maria Rochelle
de Guzman Medalla

From the OrSem days until the first few months of


freshman year, she was called Chelle (her nickname
at home). But with her “high-school-buddy-turned-
college-blockmate” successfully influencing other
classmates, everyone eventually began calling her
by her high school nickname: Roe.

Roe is the quiet type at first, but she gets over it


fairly quickly after the ice has been broken. She is
such a sunny and bubbly person who can’t help but
draw the best out of the people around her.

Aside from her optimism, Roe is also blessed with a


head of smooth silky hair that would have been the
envy of queens of old, a smile that can brighten up
the darkest of times, a hearty laugh that can raise
the weariest of souls, and a cute pout capable of
melting the most fridgid of hearts. With these gifts,
she can get away with almost anything. I guess it
goes without saying that her cheerful disposition is
intoxicating, just like her favorite color – orange.

She truly is an unforgettable person, someone


who’s full of life. She’s everybody’s friend – a very
loving and loyal friend at that. Ask anyone she’s
been with and they’ll tell you how much they enjoy
her company.

204 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Michael Bernardo
Alcantara Parker

Mike Parker.

Any relation to Peter Parker? Sorry, none. And


sorry, you’re not the first one to ask. Go think of
something more original.

Tall. Green (succinctly put, peridot) jacket. T-shirt,


shorts, glasses, Chucks. Can’t imagine this guy
with more hair than his current newly-shaved fuzz
that begs one to run his/her fingers over it. (Sorry,
but it’s the truth.) Is frequently mistaken to be
Korean, Chinese, or Japanese. See his eyes for
further proof of this.

Likes Mac’s and not too fond of PC’s (anymore,


anyway). Likes older women and HLA and
basketball and food and sleeping and design. Is
a vector-god in the making even though he’s too
modest to admit it. If he likes what he does, he
does it well. Killer portfolio.

He hates writing papers.

Puts you at ease in five seconds flat. That’s why


he has plenty of minions. And he’s just not evil, no
matter how hard he tries. Ha ha ha. Wernk!

So, do we call him Mike or Parker? It’s a mystery.

WTF. Where’s the food. What were you thinking?

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 205


Mara Melanie
Dator Perez

Mara’s name is synonymous with organizations.


With her varied commitments, she’s been involved
in almost every cluster of COA. In her four years
in Ateneo, these more than thirty student groups,
around a fourth of which she held leadership
positions in, made her college life more challenging,
fulfilling and exhilarating!

Ateneo Catechetical Instruction League (ACIL)


imbued in her a love for teaching and the desire
to make Christ into a living reality. Matanglawin
opened her eyes to the social realities of life,
exposed her to the system’s injustices, and brought
her to peaceful rallies. Mara is very fond of the
people in Ateneo – from the instructors down to the
janitors. In their own unique ways, they each made
her college stay more inspiring and illuminating.

Mara also has a deep passion for colors. Aside


from being known as “the student with n orgs”,
“Ate Mara Po, anak ni Fernando Poe”, and “Blessed
Mara,” she is also known for her monotone outfits.
If she wears red on a Monday, expect her to be in
red from her earrings down to her shoes for the
rest of the week. For three semesters, she did this
following the colors of the rainbow.

She entered Ateneo as a Physics-CE major but


later shifted to Information Design. This is what her
heart really desired. The course helped her let her
true self shine forth for the benefit of not only her
organizations but also her loved ones.

206 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Karina Stella
Largo Punzal

Karina personifies the saying, “Silent waters run


deep”. Leaving it solely up to initial impressions,
you’d probably think she was one of the less
extroverted people around because of how
reserved she can be in her seemingly diffident
projections – her philosophy is to let gestures do
more of the talking.

A music aficionado who makes the perfect sound


trip buddy; a Shakespeare in disguise when she’s
feeling melodramatic; a Dr. Phil copycat who can
take forever giving you the lowdown on almost
anything – love, rants, dreams…life; and a self-
confessed shopping freak…the list goes on. Yet,
Karina’s more than these. She’s also a sweet and
caring friend and a trusty confidant. Contrary to
suspicions that this girl’s a snob, expect her to flash
that contagious grin whenever and wherever you
see her, which may lead you into thinking, “Boy!
Doesn’t she ever get jaded?”

Once Karina finds it comfortable to unload her


bag of tricks, her wacky side will surprisingly
pop up. She can go head over heels crying over
sappy romantic tales. She can also laugh her
heart out over the silliest jokes, finding comfort in
other simple joys, rarely running out of reasons
to be happy and optimistic about things. Karina’s
not complicated at all. Even though she may be
bewitchingly bizarre and mysteriously fascinating,
she is without a doubt downright real.

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 207


Juan Lauro
Cruz Ragragio

The black hole of the sun has penetrated the earth


The rock star has landed armed with his guitar

He lurks in the mist in search of the golden sea


He floats by the shore…
reaching for the circle of wanderers

He slides down the runic falls…


and immerses himself in the glittering bliss
He’s scooped by the clouds and
caressed by the sky

His guitar sings a love song for the lady phantom


Unmasking her from the unsighted euphoria that
consumed her soul

208 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Arlene Buscay Santos

How do you fathom an abyss? Find the answer for


this and you will be able describe the depth of this
person. At the same time, you would be startled at
the utter simplicity of her; allowing you to see how
caring, compassionate, industrious and loving she
is. An imposing problem, a need for someone to
share a meal with, an urgency to find advice, an
insufficiency of creative juices, and a need for a true
friend or cohort are predicaments that she answers,
often asking for nothing in return.

So where most of us can only find the depths of our


existence to go six feet down, she is a bottomless
pit. Not a dark, empty drop into nothingness but
that which is infinitely filled with light, life, hope,
suffering, and meaninglessness finding meaning
and capable of enduring hardships that weigh
heavily on most of us. Be with her and you wouldn’t
have to suffer endless musings on what it is to be
human from inch-thick piles of handouts, because
she is the perfect embodiment of what a true
person is. We should all be thankful that she walks
she walks the earth with us.

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 209


Jed-Angelo Clarence
Quiray Segovia

Bam. Pow. Zoom. These words can usually be


found in action-packed panels of comic books.
However, any carbon being in Ateneo’s non-existent
artists’s nook can vouch that these words can
also describe super cartoonist-cum-aspiring visual
artist and occasional theatre performer, Jed-Angelo
Clarence Q. Segovia.

Bam. Jed can spend hours and hours laboriously


working on his “cartoons” which he swears are not
for “pleasure”. But the passion and the smile on his
face says otherwise. Aside from self-protestations,
you know he “gets off” on drawing the best
cartoons this side of Manila.

Pow. Jed is also one of those down-right honest


and good-hearted fellows that are now a rarity.
Furthermore, he is fueled by integrity in everything
he does that it’s insane how this guys sticks up
for what he thinks is right. Except when certain
alcoholic beverages are available.

Zoom. So what if Jed turns out to be a hungry


artist begging for money in Malawi, or out-artsy-
fartsy-ing other art students in New York, or
maybe even stuck in a cubicle doing, god knows,
yet another publication? The thing that everyone
should watch out for is that the incredible good-
hearted big carbon ball of talent that is Jed is going
to be a huge creative force in the world, and he is
coming, faster than a speeding bullet (or a sexually-
transmitted disease).

210 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Aaron James
Galacgac Tangoan

Out of the night that covers me,


Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate.


I am the captain of my soul.

- William Ernest Henley, “Invictus”

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 211


Niko Antonio
Salvador Tolentino

Nix is a good leader and a role model. He treasures


what he learns and applies his knowledge by
helping others. I appreciate the time and effort that
he gives to the street children of Katipunan. Many
of them call Nix their kuya in Musmos.

I can also say that Nix is a very helpful and patient


guy. He is simple and humble. Every time we meet
at the MVP Building he always smiles and greets
me, “Hi, Ate Jo!”

Nix, thank you and keep it up!


God bless you always.

- Mrs. Jocelyn Blanquera


Maintenance, MVP Building
Mother of a Musmos child

212 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Karla Francesca
Lim Vinluan

Si Czek ay bunga ng kanyang nakaraan – isang


nakaraang makabuluha’t puno ng siklo ng
pagkadapa at pagbangon. Ngayo’y matikas siyang
nakatindig, naninindigan – mariin at walang patid
na tinatahak ang kasalukuyan. Sa ngalan ng pag-
asa at katotohanan, nakahanda siyang harapin,
nang buong loob, ang kinabukasang nakalaan at
naghihintay – sa hirap man o ginhawa.

BFA IN F ORMATION D ES IGN 213


BFA Theater Arts
Y
216
Paul Patrick
Relosa Alonzo

Paul Patrick Alonzo has gone through the times


and has been through the ages within the walls of
institutionalized education. He has been raised and
reared to be a man of mind and immense heart.
He finally considers himself a man who can hold
his head up high. It took him longer than most, but
his experiences were heartfelt and cherished. Paul
Patrick Alonzo is broken, like most people are. He
will venture forward, like most people do. He will
take on the adventure of life, like he eagerly does.

This is Paul Patrick Alonzo. I am Papu. A man for


the stage, I plan to venture into the biggest one of
all. This will be my greatest adventure – the grandest
play called my life, where the drama escalates, the
happiness is hard-earned, and the emotions are
mine. I venture alone. The people who have turned
me into the person that I am now have done their
part and I am thankful.

To the parents who brought me to life and shared


in my life, to the friends who made life more
interesting, to the love who gave me something to
live for, and to the people who inspired my life, I
thank you all. You know who you are.

To the next world and beyond, I welcome you.


Watch out. I am average. I am man. I am life’s
biggest surprise.

“The stage is my sanctuary. Performance is


freedom.”

BFA T H EATER ART S 217


Anthony Austin
Ruiz Caw

In the beginning, light hit him; the world caught


a glimmer of a man sitting in the midst of dismal
darkness – his eyes constant and unblinking.
Empires would rise and fall and cultures would call
him a fool in a million different tongues although
they were never sure if he was a man or merely
a shadow or maybe a dream. For generations
and generations he would remain, stagnant and
unceasing in his posture, not even raising his hands
to protect himself from the cold rain that God would
shower him with or the spit that men would judge
him with.

In the end of days, he would stand.

He would stand to create order from chaos,
to remake nations, and to take the full harvest
of creation. For in his constant stare, he was
dreaming. 

218 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Mariel Aubrey
Chin Cimafranca

Some people are meant to go the distance. Sweet


is the only one I know who can run ten kilometers
without breaking a sweat – leaving her competition
in the dust while she’s at it. She’s worn down
several pairs of shoes with more miles than she can
remember and, somewhere in her room, envelopes
filled with race bibs and souvenirs house memories
of victories and personal bests. She’s had her share
of glory on the road, but that isn’t why she’ll go
farther than most of us can ever imagine.

Sweet doesn’t shy away from the stage. She owns


it. Her passion for theater and knack for acting can
only be matched by her flair on the dance floor – it’s
where she comes alive, catching the rhythm and
putting on a show, be it for a winning performance
on stage or for fun on the Dance Dance Revolution
machine in an arcade. She’ll even beat you with her
moves in air hockey while you’re there. And good
as she is at beating a friend, she’s even better at
being one. Who else will listen when you say that
toothaches kill chess players? Or that, strangely
enough, Men’s Health articles are more interesting
than its pictures of half-naked women? She’ll not
only laugh with you but also throw in a few jokes to
keep you laughing. Yet you know that she’ll never
be one of the guys. None of the guys – or girls for
that matter – can look as good as she does in her
green ball gown.

Sweet has everything she needs to get far in life


and more. She’s one of the lucky ones whose race
will never end. All she has to do is keep on running.

BFA T H EATER ART S 219


Andrei Nikolai
Pamintuan

220 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Jillian Mari Diano Peña

Jill moves. She moves the people who work


alongside her, the friends who laugh with her, and
the audiences put before her. She impresses her
colleagues with a work ethic that is thoroughly
professional. She endears herself to friends with her
smile and inspires audiences with her song. Initial
impressions of outward sweetness (or mischievous
sultriness, depending on her mood) give way to a
sense of indomitable ambition – she has found her
dream and she toils tirelessly to reach it. Indeed, it’s
hard to find her not moving in some way towards
it, may it be in a rehearsal or gig or production
meeting…yet, for her, there is none of the catty
malice or petty intrigues so commonly found on
and off the stage. She believes that theater is a
journey towards understanding and that stagecraft
is a service to the truth. These beliefs reflect readily
in her dealings with people – friends, staffers, scene
partners, directors – all the people she so easily,
lovingly, gloriously moves.

BFA T H EATER ART S 221


Bridget Carmen
Jacinto Pineda

Her looks alone testify to the one thing that many


strive for but only a few are blessed with: this girl
was born to be a star.

A good-looking girl with curly locks highlighted with


hues of gold and ochre, she possesses the laidback
attitude of a demure Cebuana and the street-savvy
smarts of a bustling urban Manileña. One day she
wows audiences with her thick and rich singing
voice, another day she is a theater denizen luring
viewers into a world within the proverbial “fourth
wall”. A proficient student, an actress, a singer, and
a leader, she is a vessel of talent no man thought
possible.

This lady is as wondrous a performer as she is a


person. Responsible, hardworking, and loyal to
her friends, her humility and good nature will never
fail to endear her to anyone she comes across.
Her good-natured disposition in life rubs off on the
people lucky enough to encounter her.

That’s Vica, the total package…artist, performer,


student, and friend. She is a pearl from the South
and a shining star to us all.

222 T H E 2007 ATEN EO ÆGIS


Michelle Grace
del Castillo Santos

Michelle is a star in a million. She, like the rest of us,


has met people who’ve provided her with a myriad
of experiences and opportunities to grow. One
would be surprised to learn that underneath all that
shampoo commercial-worthy hair and behind that
model-like frame is a genuinely sweet and caring
person. Don’t be fooled by her OC-ness or her
panghahampas because that is her way of showing
affection. All things considered, the best description
for Michelle is that she’s an artist – not just because
she’s a Theatre Arts major or because she’s good in
sewing, set design, making costumes, and dancing,
but also because of the way she draws people’s
attention, how she molds young minds in ACIL, and
the manner in which she exemplifies how to be a
responsible and loving daughter/sister.

She brings texture into one’s life by taking every


opportunity to make everyone’s day worthwhile.
She paints the world in the same way she colors
people’s days with just her smile, in the way she
balances schoolwork and extracurricular activities,
and in the way she creates and builds meaningful
friendships. And she, in the end, not like most of us,
was able to rise above every challenge. Her path
in life has never been easy, but being the strong
person that she is, Michee never gave up. Because
of this, her light shines brighter as she learns to
be the person she has always dreamed of being:
someone who is not afraid to take risks and always
full of love. Her life as canvas, she’s an artist in
the best sense because she truly is one-of-a-kind,
inspiring, and beautiful.

BFA T H EATER ART S 223


Ad majorem Dei gloriam
Ad Jesum per Mariam

You might also like