The
Allen Aumasa
EasternVigil
MNCHS resumes class after a two-year hiatus. –Bon Cedrick M. Suan
MNCHS implements full-blast face-to-face classes
after the two-year pandemic
M
ati National
Comprehensive
High School
(MNCHS) starts the
implementation of full-
blast face-to-face classes on
Wednesday, November 2,
2022.
This implementation
is done in response to
DepEd’s mandate regarding
the opening of face-
to-face classes on the
aforementioned date in all
public and private schools
nationwide.
Prior to the
implementation, the school
conducted extensive
preparation for the return
of students, which involves
the implementation of safety
protocols, particularly the
setting up of isolation room,
constant wearing of face
masks, and social distancing
to secure the students’
safety.
“I am very happy that
students are able to connect
with their friends again,
and I can see that they are
more comfortable now that
we’re back to face-to-face
classes,” said the School
Principal, Dr. Alicia R.
Astronomo.
During the interview,
We Profess. We Deliver.
Mati National Comprehensive High School
NEWS
Students elect SSG officers for
S.Y. 2022-2023
P.3
EDITORIAL
Campus Journalists for
their Press Freedom
I
n accordance with the
By - Venice Cillado Philippine Constitution,
the 1987 Constitution
Dr. Astronomo highlighted Even though MNCHS has guarantees press freedom.
the preparation of the school prepared for these concerns, Despite this, our country
and the teachers to pass enrolment increase was is the world’s seventh
the DILG requirements inevitable. deadliest country for
and receive the safety seal “Despite the journalists according to a...
which certifies that Matihigh disadvantages, I am beyond
P.2
is equipped for the full blessed that face-to-
implementation of face-to-
face classes.
face classes are now
finally implemented,” Dr. FEATURE
“Now that we have Astronomo added.
the face-to-face learning Meanwhile, teachers A Passion to Guard, A
modality, students can learn and school personnel Passion for Duty
more because they will continue to monitor the
have personal interactions conditions of students in
with their peers, and case a COVID threat arises.
the teacher can see the
students’ capabilities and
performance. Of course, the
students can learn better in
face-to-face modality than
in modular modality,” Mr.
P.6
Arnulfo A. Lutog added, the
school’s assistant principal.
He also noted the challenges SPORTS NEWS
associated with face-to-face
classes due to overcrowding
Mati Eagles intimidates
in the classroom caused by
an overwhelming number
Tagum City, 13-2
of students and expressed
hope for solutions for the
upcoming school year.
This notion was also
supported by the School
Principal, adding that there
is scarcity of chairs, tables,
learning modalities, and Illuminado Boiser
even the lack of budget P.12
as the school opens.

Campus Journalists for their Press Freedom
I n accordance with the
Philippine Constitution,
the 1987 Constitution
guarantees press freedom.
Despite this, our country
is the world’s seventh
deadliest country for
journalists according
to a recent study of the
Committee to Protect
Journalists 2021 Global
Impunity Index, making
the Philippines become
one of the world’s most
dangerous places to employ
press freedom. Rappler ’s
CEO, Maria Ressa has
filed lawsuits, and along
with this, Rappler ’s license
was revoked in 2015
after former President
Rodrigo Duterte accused
it of spreading fake news.
Moreover, in the year
2020, ABS-CBN broadcast
network was shut down
because of its expired
franchise. While on the
year 2021, journalist Jess
Malabanan was shot dead
in his house in Samar
province.
In addition, during
The Eastern Vigil
EDITORIAL
the previous Philippine
Presidential Election,
many student activists
from various universities,
including the University
of the Philippines, were
accused of red-tagging.
With these cases, does this
mean that press freedom in
school will be suspended,
and our campus journalists
who aspire to be the voice
of the voiceless and one
of those fighting for press
freedom will be oppressed
alongside those journalists
mentioned above?
The following
paragraphs explain why
press freedom in schools
should be fought for.
To begin, press freedom
in school is critical in
representing all students’
voices. The students
who made a significant
contribution to the school
publication were not
simply students who just
write articles. These
are students who value
their freedom of speech
and expression. Hence,
the press freedom in
school became a way to
assist individuals in the
institution in expressing
their views and opinions,
as well as constructive
criticisms on a specific
issue or topic.
Second, press freedom
in schools assists and
provides students with the
opportunity to improve
their skills in journalism,
as it trains these students
to be actively involved in
discussing any pressing
and relevant issues
not only within the school
community but also beyond
it. Furthermore, students
will learn how to recognize
the distinction between
truth and falsity through
journalism. Thus, it teaches
a student to be critical in
his or her analysis of an
idea.
Finally, press freedom
in school allows campus
journalists to raise social
awareness. As a result,
people are less likely to
be misled and duped by
fake news. Empowering
the school publication will
not only promote press
freedom but will also
benefit students, for it will
help them to observe and
practice becoming active
citizens of our country at a
young age.
As written by Thomas
Jefferson to a friend in
1786, “Our liberty depends
on the freedom of the
press, and that cannot be
limited without being lost.”
In conclusion, each
student’s voice should be
amplified by empowering
their free speech. Instead
of criticizing these young
people for being socially
and politically aware,
why not encourage them
to stay that way? We
must remember what
Mr. Abraham “Ditto”
Sarmiento Jr. Said: “ Kung
hindi tayo kikibo, sino
ang kikibo? Kung hindi
ngayon, kailan pa?”
1

C
hanges in learning
modality hit everything
that affects the life and
performance of students.
Does it mean that students must be
drowned with high expectations?
Do students need to be criticized
for their poor performance in
face-to-face classes than in virtual
learning?
“Conceivably, the COVID-19
pandemic has alleviated magnificent
devastation in the academic life of
students, compounding to comprise
their academic performance.” An
excerpt from the study by Ling Li
clearly states that COVID-19 slowly
destroyed a student’s performance
in face-to-face classes due to virtual
learning. Due to the said virtual
learning, a lot of students became
an achiever, and that’s what makes
the teachers and parents expect
more from today’s setup.
As we all know, students
suffered a two-year dilemma of
getting in touch to interact with
teachers or stay at home and
learning independently while
reading their own modules by their
H
ow often than not
do we find students
at school with a
cellphone in hand? And
how young do the youths
nowadays start to own at
least one gadget? Be it for
emergencies, educational aid,
or leisurely
activities,
these are
various
reasons
why the
youths
have
all the
rights
to own
a the ban of these products
The Eastern Vigil
OPINION
Student’s life now:
Drowned with high expectations
By Alexa Gatdul;a
own. As a student, it is hard for
us to be stuck in a bubble where
facing modules, phones, and online
platforms in learning were the
only reference we got to absorb
everything we need to pass. Despite
the rising number of achievers in
virtual learning, it won’t serve as a
starting point that students must
be criticized for their performance
in today’s face-to-face learning.
As students need to adjust to
‘something new’ that disrupts their
routine in distance learning.
According to a survey conducted
in 2021, 30 percent of Filipino
respondents believe that the current
distance learning model is effective
to a degree of 20 to 50 percent. This
result serves as an advantage and
somewhat a disadvantage for others
who lack materials to satisfy their
needs and poor time management
to fulfill their responsibilities at
home and at school.
On the other hand, Justine
Raagas, acting executive director
of PBEd, told ANC that one of the
biggest opportunities actually now
is their return to classes because
Technology Aids Education
By Justhine Orias
cellphone.
The 21st century is
the peak of progression of
humanity’s greatest strength,
technology. As civilians that
is part of this century, our
basic knowledge of gadgets
does not only range from
menus and options. As our
world progresses, so does our
creations and its creators.
From the young to the
old, almost everyone has
come to know how to use
a cellphone. Which is
why even at school and
universities, these gadgets
are inevitable. Despite
circumstances that shows
of technology, there
is no denying
the aid it can
provide students
when it comes to
their educational
development.
before the COVID-19 crisis,
learning poverty in the Philippines
was only 69.5 percent. Indeed, face-
to-face learning is an opportunity
that helped students build their
confidence and truly reveals their
actual performance at school
since it involves interaction with
different kinds of students and
teachers. Furthermore, it could
aid and support that will act as
a foundation for us to grow
more and to be equipped in
the future.
Students face different
scenarios, and they side with
different angles, some prefer
distance learning as they feel
comfortable learning and
control their time wisely
as they can still do
what they want,
while others
prefer face-to-
face learning as
they are more
competent
and confident
enough to show
what they got.
According to the Public
Internet Library, these
innovations have caused a
great impact on our society
including the youth. With
the aid of gadgets, younger
children had stimulated their
senses and imaginations,
which caused them to develop
their innovative thinking,
investigative skills and also
their creativity. In school,
students improve their
manual dexterity with the
help of gadgets, the awareness
of computers would be
spread, and the youth would
not be ignorant to our
modernized society. These
products of technology along
with the internet, also provide
students with endless supply
of information and resources
that could help them in their
education.
Although, the following
information are not always
reliable, the youth could also
It is our right to learn, to spread
our wings on our own without
any chain that drags us down. Do
students need to be criticized for
their poor performance in face-to-
face classes than in virtual learning?
Absolutely no. We, as students, have
our own capabilities,
skills, comfort zones,
and time, so no
one must dictate
someone’s path
or future. Let
us bear in mind
that students
need time to
adapt and
grow in
time.
learn how to do the proper
and valid way of searching
for data and documents on
the internet. This would
further develop their critical
and analytical thinking when
it comes to finding trusted
references and sources in the
web. As a student who is also
relying on the benefits of
technology, I can say that the
use of cellphones in school
would become a very big
help especially for students
that are not intellectually
blessed. The assist of these
innovations could greatly
and positively change the
youth into becoming more
creative and critical for their
future. This is, responsibility-
wise speaking, if the gadget
is used correctly and with
limitations, then there would
be no problem in the effects
of technology in the life of the
youth.
2
 NEWS
Students elect SSG officers for S.Y. 2022-2023
By Nastassja Austria

T
he Supreme Student
Government (SSG)
welcomed its new set of
officers for the school year 2022-
2023 as elections were held last
September 15-16, 2023.
This school year’s election
consisted of three parties with
independent candidates: Dilaab
Partylist, Sandigan Partylist, and
Tunhay Partylist. The Sandigan
Partylist’s presidential candidate,
Rayhan Martino, claimed victory
with a landslide win.
Each party was able
to do face-to-face and online
campaigns.
Room-to-room campaigns
were conducted by the aspirants
who shared their platforms and
ideals with the students during
the three-day campaign period
prior to the election dates.
Most of the online
campaigns, on the other
hand, were done on Facebook,
through the candidates’ use of
their party’s respective profile
frames, captions, and hashtags.
The election was made
successful under the supervision
of the school’s principal, Dr.
Alicia R. Astronomo, facilitation
of the SSG adviser, Mrs. Brielou
Estremos, as well as the aid of
the teachers.
The said poll is the first
face-to-face election after the
implementation of modular and
online learning systems during
the pandemic.
The newly elected SSG
officers are expected to fulfil
their duties and responsibilities
as they lead and represent the
student body.
Reymon Catampao

MNCHS campus journalists attend a 2-day training in preparation for DSPC

By Venice Cillado

Ms. Ruby Rivera, one of the speakers, discusses the essentials of various journalism events, including news writing, during the seminar-workshop at
MNCHS library on April 13 in preparation for DSPC.

M
NCHS, April 17
– Mati National
Comprehensive High
School (MNCHS) Campus
Journalists attend a two-day
training session in preparation
for the Division School Press
Conference (DSPC) that will be
held at the said school on May
5-7, 2023.
The symposium was done
in the presence of 45 student
journalists from Eastern Vigil
and Ang Silangan.
During the training, the
Secretary General of the Youth
for Peace Movement Davao
Oriental, Ruby Rivera, and
multi-awarded journalist from
SunStar Davao, Ace June Perez,
both served as the speakers of
the two-day workshop.
With the help of the
School Paper Advisers, Dor-
othy Samson-Sajetarios and
Kiarah Reyshylle Ibañez of
Eastern Vigil, and Liza Mae
Biol and Alyzza Rose Tamay
of Ang Silangan, the workshop
went smoothy.
“Journalism isn’t just all
about writing; it’s also about
hearing the voice of the un-
heard,” Rivera quoted.
The said workshop aims
to prepare student journalists
for the upcoming DSPC and
train them to be the voice of
the youth who speak and write
with credibility.

The Eastern Vigil 3

 NEWS
MNCHS conducts Intrams 2023,
returns after hiatus
By Karen Joy Salamat

F
or the first time in
two and a half years of
distance learning, Mati
National Comprehensive
High School conducted its
intramurals on January 20-21,
2023.
The school intramurals
commenced with a program
Kara B.Garcia (center) from Grade 10 level grabs the crown for Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2023 together wherein Mr. Judy Fariolen,
with her coaches, Ms. Dorothy Samson (left) and Shaika Gregorio (right). –Bon Cedrick M. Suan
MAPEH Education Program
Supervisor (EPS), presented a
speech to remind the students
of the essence of the event.
During the program,
the coaches and tournament
managers for every event were
introduced and presented to the
crowd. This was followed by the
flag raising of representatives
from different departments
to signal their resolve for
camaraderie and sportsmanship.
The first day of the school’s
two-day event began with
the search for Mr. and Ms.
Intramurals 2023, followed by
different sports competitions in
their respective venues. On the
other hand, the championship
games were scheduled for the
second day.
Mr. Aljariri Luciano,
MAPEH teacher, announced the
results after the flag ceremony
on Monday, January 23, where
the Senior High School (SHS)
department was hailed as the
overall champion.
This celebration of school
intramurals served as an avenue
for students to campaign period
prior to the election dates.

Tribu Matihigh lands third place in Indak Sayaw 2022

By Karen Joy Salamat

M
ati National Perominggan, a Tribu
Comprehensive MatiHigh dancer, said in an
High School interview.
(MNCHS) won third place “We are content and
in the Indak Sayaw sa satisfied with the result
Sambuokan 2022 held at because all participating
MFGR Mati Park & Baywalk teams were winners in a
on Saturday, October 29. way, and our place as third
Dr. Alicia R. Astronomo, placer is just an assessment
School Prinicpal, attended of being excellent among the
the event together with Mrs. five entries. Still with high
Fe G. Talbin, Coordinator hope and energy, Matihigh
of Tribu Matihigh, and its will fight. Soar high,
70 participants, who bagged Matihigh!” She added.
a trophy and a Php60,000 The team’s yell echoed
worth of cash prize. in the area as they shouted,
Although the dancers set “Lupad, Tribu Matihigh!”
their eyes on the prize, they The Immaculate Heart
accepted the results with of Mary Academy (IHMA)
optimism. won the Php100,000 top
“I can say that it is quite prize after successfully
sad because of our high defending its title.
hopes. We did everything The first runner-
that we could to bag the up was Matiao National
championship [first place] High School (MNHS),
that we worked hard for in followed by Mati National
several weeks of practice, Comprehensive High
but everybody has the same School (MNCHS), City of
motivation, and our effort, Mati National High School
which we believed was (CMNHS), and Mati Doctors
the best, was equalled or Academy (MDA) in second
even surpassed,” Reahbelle and third place, respectively.
Allen Aumasa

The Eastern Vigil 4

 NEWS
Career program employs guidance to grade 10 students
By Zoe Allessandra Malintad

M
ati National
Comprehensive
High School
(MNCHS) conducted a
career guidance program
for grade 10 students at the
school’s covered court on
April 25-27, 2023.
The three-day program
was initiated to cater to all
sections on different days
and avoid overcrowding.
The program’s initiative
is to help incoming senior
high school students in
carefully choosing the right
strand that will align with
their current interests and
potentials.
One of the speakers in
the program is the school’s
Assistant Principal, Mr.
Arnulfo Lutog.
During his talk, he
emphasized the importance
of weighing choices as it
plays a huge role in what the
future will bring. Jamaicha Abdon

MNCHS hosts the opening program of 2023 DSPC

By Zoe Allessandra Malintad

T
he opening program Conference (DSPC) took S c h o o l o n M a y 5 , F r i d a y. can thrive in journalism.
of the Division place at Mati National The said program He ended his speech by
of Schools Press Comprehensive High w a s h e l d a t t h e s c h o o l ’s o ff i c i a l l y d e c l a r i n g t h e
covered court, which was start of DSPC.
filled by the presence As they anticipate
of coaches, parents, and the competition, some
campus journalists from students and advisers,
d i ff e r e n t s c h o o l s u n d e r t h e especially those who
Mati City Division. came from distant
During the program, locations, were provided
the Schools’ Division with quarters to
S u p e r i n t e n d e n t D r. Wi n n i e accommodate their stay
E. Batoon provided tips in school.
on how the participants

Ayumi Gubalani Ayumi Gubalani

The Eastern Vigil 5

Doy’s ballad of hope
in withstanding disabilit y, failure, and adversit y
“D
oy, what
motivates you
to exceed the
expectation of people as
you join this pageant?”
I asked like a typical
campus journalist would
do. But minutes later,
there was only silence and
confusion that dazzled
inside his eyes. The
confusion halted when his
former elementary teacher,
Marilou P. Velvestre, tap
his right shoulder and said,
“Doy is deaf.”
Delighted as he is,
this 18-year-old star
surely knows the elation
of belongingness in his
chosen community can be
as wild and free in contrast
of how lonely and muted
life can be.
A Passion to Guard,
A Passion for Duty
By Hannah Baldomero
A
t first glance, one might
mistake Mr. Laurentino
as someone who looks
The Eastern Vigil
FEATURE
Combating Life’s Unheard Hurdles:
By Kejie Oppos
It is true, to be
reciprocated by help and
kindness can be a ray
of sunshine amid the
gnarling storm. However,
it is also hard to know
who needed help. But one
thing Doy knew for sure,
understanding without
help is about as smart
as wood infested with
termites. But assistance in
understanding is valuable
to him since his illness
is opaque, unless stated
otherwise.
Saifuddin Malintad,
who is fondly called as
‘Doy’ by his classmates
and friends, proudly
represented his grade level
during the competition of
Mr. and Ms. Intramurals.
In the said competition, he
like an ordinary person, with his
brown complexion and cushy-
like figure that is obedient with
his poise, confident in his voice,
and gentle in time of noise.
For almost six years of
strong and dedicated service,
he ensured the safety of our
school through day and night,
and even rain or shine. As
he always upholds the rules
to implement discipline and
conduct, he dedicated his life for
the well-being of the school’s
constituents. He may look tough,
yet he is flexible in catering our
security needs.
Mr. Laurentino C.
Baldomero, Jr., one of our
school’s security guards, never
failed to attend to his duties here
in our respectable alma mater.
He does his duties with pride
and passion—these values he’s
familiar with for the last 24 years
of experience in the field of
showed everyone that he
was able to join like the
others and even bag the
fifth place despite having a
hearing impairment.
Encompassing his fear
in front of the possible
judgment is one of the
reasons why he has taken a
long time to showcase
his potential in pageantry.
But now, Doy decided to
change his own narrative.
He decided to make
history. And surely, he did.
“Honestly, it was
my first time to join in
such competition like
pageantry. I was picked by
our teacher to be part of
Mr. and Ms. Intramurals.
Maybe, my motivation is
to show who and what I
am. I want
security service.
Jumping from being a guard
in a Telecom tower, a few banks
in Tagum and Mati city, and now
here in MNCHS, Mr. Baldomero
harnessed and developed his
skills in order to offer us only
the best of his work. “Over the
years, I’ve been a guard. You
really need to value honesty and
respect. Those values will really
lead you to goodness,” he stated.
However, his job isn’t
always filled with rainbows
and butterflies. He encountered
a lot of difficulties as as a
security guard. Despite the
social discrimination, personal
hardships, and environmental
toxicity, these negativities
never stopped him to exhibit
perseverance and passion
towards his job.
These hurdles became his
driving force to be better and
prove that there’s more to his
duty than “just being watchful,”
especially in the times of the
COVID-19 pandemic where
many outsiders try to intrude
into the school in the anonymity
of the night or even in broad
daylight.
to inspire people, like me,
that there is no hindrance
in expressing ourselves
whether we are different
among others,” Doy
answered.
Last November 17,
2021, as God intended, he
was promoted from Security
Guard 1 to Security Guard 2,
making him the head guard of
our institution. His appetency
to instill the laws has led him
to a rightful and deserving
recognition. Although this
newly attained rank has served
him more respect, he still
remains humble and continues
to do his job with loyalty.
Mr. Baldomero is one of
the few examples who believe
that it doesn’t matter what kind
of ugly approach life gives
you, as long as you see things
in a positive perspective, we
should walk down that path
and continue to do the things
that we are passionate about.
As a security guard and
person in general, he is a
good example in teaching the
young that one should never
be ashamed of what he does;
instead, be proud about it and
let the world know that you
are more than what others
think of. To all the guards who
guarantee our safety, we salute
you!
6

ExPress:
Power of Right Write
to
“F
reedom of the press
is not just important
to democracy; it
is democracy,” said Walter
The Eastern Vigil
FEATURE
By Alena Marcellones
Cronkite in his famous quote
that lights the spirit of press
worldwide.
Black ink of a ballpoint
pen, white paper, and powerful
words— these are the weapons
to fight for what’s right and
to show the power of press
freedom.
Schools in the country enact
campus journalism programs
for students to enhance their
criticizing skills, their ability
to stand on a certain issue, and
to let their creativity flow with
important add-ons of facts and
informations.
“The power of press
freedom,” a phrase that conveys
a meaning of great importance,
something that a journalist must
attain. The courage to speak up
and be an eye-opener to those
who keep a blind eye and pretend
that facts, issues, and pieces of
information are as visible as air.
“Press freedom in school,
just from its name alone,
symbolizes freedom for those
journalists and students as
well. It also serves as a speaker
to voice out the opinions,
criticisms, and thoughts of the
students in the school,” said
Hallana Desales, a sports writer
from Eastern Vigil, the official
English school publication in
MNCHS, on the discussion of
the role of the press freedom in
school.
Having the press freedom
to write and share their
perspectives in the school gives
them the power to spread facts
and standpoints on the issues
within the campus. It gives them
the go-ahead signal to provide
information to the students on
what’s really happening in their
surroundings.
Press freedom also acts as
a voice for those students who
have been silent and for those
issues that have been forcefully
erased and left no trace.
“The role of press freedom
in school is to let the students
freely express their thoughts and
opinions while considering the
evidence of their perception,”
commented Zoe Malintad,
another journalist from the
Eastern Vigil.
Being part of the press
in schools that have been
given the power to share their
views also comes with a sense
of responsibility. It is their
responsibility to share facts and
reliable information so they
can be trusted by the students
on their campus. A campus
journalist should express the
truth and forbid spreading lies
and fake information.
“It does influence
movements for change because
the press serves as the voice
of the people. Expressing the
unheard insights is the first step
toward opting for change,” Zoe
added.
The power of press freedom
in school can create movements
for change. Through the efforts
of campus journalists to write
and inform, a chain reaction of
change can occur.
It is truly powerful to have
freedom. Through this, campus
journalists can spread their wings
to make a movement for change.
Having the right to write
ignites the fire and keeps burning
the passion of those who are
part of the press to express their
thoughts. A factual, reliable,
and believable article from a
journalist can start a little step
towards big change. That is
why having press in a learning
institute is a great power and
weapon.
7

Face-to-face Class Comeback:
Surreal yet So Real
T
hree years after the
pandemic, being at school
feels like freedom with a
little bit of suffocation and much
like exhaustion. Loads of school
work here, tons of performance
tasks there, and a sprinkle of
quizzes are what make the
face-to-face classes a fever-pitch
scene.
Last November 2, 2022 was
the official implementation date
for full-blast face-to-face classes
after two years of distance
learning in the country. The
transition from homeschooling to
being physically present at school
leaves the students with the need
to make a big adjustment to keep
up on their learning.
Face-to-face class
implementation became a hot
topic after its announcement of
coming back after being put on
hold for two years.
The transition between
staying at home and learning all
by yourself during the pandemic
to facing the comeback of
the traditional class is a huge
transition for the students. The
adrenaline rush rises due to the
excitement to meet new people
after two years of just facing the
blue rayed screens of gadgets
and the quiet, dull, white walls
of bedrooms. It really causes a
stir to students and make their
stomach tingle in excitement. The
butterflies in their stomach gets
wild as the students get anxious.
“There wasn’t a smooth
transition from the modular to
face-to-face classes which is very
difficult to adjust to,” Mj Malasa,
SSG grade 10 representative
commented about the full blast
face-to-face class.
Months after face-to-
face classes, students are still
processing the adjustments that
they need to make. But it seems
like the lessons and tasks given
to them can’t wait for them to
fully adjust.
The students describe the
The Eastern Vigil
FEATURE
By Alena Marcellones
traditional class as stressful. learn a lot, especially about comforting environment of
School work over school work the value of not giving up. The school grounds is the unexpected
and a side dish of surprise implementation of face-to-face transition. Students are yet far
quizzes welcomed the students classes after the pandemic made enough along to pursue their
this school year. Keeping up with the students work together to achievements, but they’re
the performance tasks needed learn and pass this school year. already far along and continuing
to be accomplished on time and The thought of succeeding this to collect milestones. All the
passing written works before year as a student was what was hardships they face for this
the deadline are the struggles printed like a picture on their face-to-face class have been
students face in this kind of minds. seen. What they feel is all valid,
learning. This school year is the and the positive mindset of the
Time management is not greatest plot twist for the students is astonishing.
enough for workloads given at students; going
the same time, which explains from the Three years after the
why the students describe this comfort pandemic, being at school
implementation as burning the of and feeling the vibe
candle at both ends. their of not-so-fresh yet
“Think on the bright side,” own haven air after the
is how the other students in this homes implementation of
country view the face-to-face to face-to-face classes
class implementation. the feels surreal. Despite
Despite the stress they all the hectic loads
might feel, they put the academic of schoolwork, going
activities in a positive light. to school physically
Those students define face- ignities the fire of
to-face classes as awesome; thrill and excitement
through this kind of learning, in students to face
they met new friends and created more obstacles to
memories with them. The continuously learn.
unforgettable experience is what
made their school journey
exciting, even though they
feel drowned to keep going
with the flow for this
school year.
Several challenges
have been encountered
by the students on
the comeback of
the traditional
class in this
country. Different
academic
obstacles are
what the
students
needed to
get through.
Breakdowns,
burnouts, and being
on the verge of giving
up because of the pressure
on their plates were some of the
things they experienced.
Through this way of
learning, the students actually
 FEATURE

NATURE’S HAVOC:

Ancient friend,
Present Enemy By Alena Marcellones

“G
lobal warming is It is like hope in a frame with another being. Because if the increasing our economic
a myth!” – Yes, another world to indulge and reason behind these endless record. Illnesses such as heat
and no. Yes, for environment to utilize. Yet, publicized advocacies is to stroke, dengue, skin cancer,
a reason that it is just mere the world does not function mend the hole of the rapid and fever are one of the
word threaded together to like that. fall down of our environment, sicknesses we will attain if
make it make some sense. So, does our advocacies our words could have been global warming will rapidly
No, for a reason that global lead us towards recalibrating the reason when it comes to increase. If mending these
warming holds deeper humanity’s only hope? environmental change. Yet, problems allows us to fight
responsibility aside from Does it mend the hole of words and actions are not head over heels, then let us
mere threaded words. environmental crisis? Or does verified as equal. demand war to it.
It is undeniably true our intention is to provide To aid our ignorance, let The earth, our home, the
that going out only planet
these days that can
feels like support and
stepping in sustain life
Hades’ burning for more than
realm. Before, 10 billion is
we only worry now facing
with how a massive
much expenses problem that
we are to creates a
spend. Today, domino effect.
we worry not On a
just about personal note,
the money man is the
but also with only animal
our umbrella, who can take
hydro-flask, the challenge
sunscreen, and if previous
t-shirt – you history has
name it! anything to
In this teach, it shows
day of age, that man has
we often write stupendous
our advocacy and fantastic
with regards to to survive.
environmental Not their
preservation. actions that
We post on causes global
social media fall-off, but
and get the negligence
number of with their
hearts we abused.
want – admit it, we like the another body of knowledge us know for We
attention. We like to advocate on how to navigate the a fact that global warming is are given with this gift to
our thoughts and live in the rampaging response of the core reason why glaciers nurture in order for the next
fantasy of our opinions. Just mother nature? Maybe, are now melting, animals generation to experience. Yet,
by reading these advocacies, practically, we just like to were put on a massive even when the last tree is cut
we will undoubtedly get that expose ourselves with media extinction, and continuous and the last fish is caught,
sudden urge to mend the expression and how much fall-off of natural resources humanity will still cling over
lacking of our environment. fulfilling it is to agree with continues hinder us in the power of money.

The Eastern Vigil 9


School Health and Safety Protocols
I
n line with the
implementation of face-
to-face classes, efforts
in preventing Covid-19 and
other infectious diseases are
strengthened by the Department
of Education (DepEd) who has
issued updated guidelines on
health and safety protocols in
schools amid the pandemic.
“Since the beginning of
the Covid-19 pandemic, DepEd
has released various issuances
to guide schools and offices on
ensuring the health, safety, and
well-being of personnel and
learners, especially in the context
of the resumption of face-to-face
classes amid the pandemic,” Vice
President and DepEd Secretary
Sara Duterte said in accordance
with the DepEd Order No. 39
series of 2022.
As schools reopen,
precautions are advised to be
practiced inside and outside
classrooms to prevent the spread
The Eastern Vigil
SCI-TECH
COVID-19:
By Kate Misa
of COVID-19.
Following these protocols,
Mati National Comprehensive
High School (MNCHS) has
informed its students the
following health protocols:
Wearing of face mask
To reduce the risk of COVID-19
in schools, face masks should be
worn, especially when physical
distancing is not possible. In
doing so, one’s face mask should
properly cover his or her nose,
mouth, and chin.
Washing of hands
Students are encouraged to
practice washing their hands
and applying hand sanitizers
regularly, especially when
entering and leaving the
classroom.
Improving room ventilation
Ensure proper ventilation in
classrooms, canteen, and other
indoor spaces. Natural ventilation administrators, and staff. These
is recommended by opening efforts are done to monitor and
windows and doors when stabilize the possible effects of
possible. COVID-19 and ensure the safety
of the school’s constituents
Cleaning rooms and surfaces without compromising quality
Clean and disinfect rooms, learning.
especially those surfaces that are
frequently touched, such as door
handles and desks.
Staying at home when sick
Every school promotes a “stay
at home when sick” policy,
especially when an individual
shows symptoms of COVID-19,
such as coughing, sore throat,
fever, or loss of taste or smell.
The school nurse, teachers, and
parents should be informed
whenever a student has
symptoms.
The implementation of
these health protocols is expected
to produce better impact for
the health and well-being of
the school’s learners, teachers,
10
 SCI-TECH
Arcturus: A Never-Ending Battle
By Kate Misa
“O
ne of the big to evolve.”
uncertainties we We’ve gone through a lot
face going forward of challenges in our lives, from
is the virus itself,” Van Kerkhove things that haven’t gone in our
added. “It hasn’t settled into a way to things that we don’t
predictable pattern. It continues expect to experience.
Just like the global issue
that we experienced for over
five years and still counting,
we were all having a hard time
adjusting to the new protocols
that have been implemented in
our community. From wearing
masks and staying in isolation,
COVID-19 was a really tough
experience.
Because of the said virus
above, Many people have lost
their job, and students have also
experienced the online class and
modular type of learning. Many
have also suffered, and many
NBC news
The Eastern Vigil
have lost their lives.
Yet, we were all relieved for
the fact that this issue has died
down for a couple of months.
Everything went back to normal
and we were now free to go out
without being scared of the virus.
OOPS, WAIT! Do ya’ll
really think that the virus is now
over? Do ya’ll actually think that
we’re free now?
Sorry to burst your bubble,
but we’re not yet free. Well,
Have you ever heard of Arcturus?
It is the new highly contagious
COVID 19 variant that evolved
from the omicron strain which
is now been labeled “a variant
of interest” by the World Health
Organization.
If you ever experienced
high fever, cough, and “itchy”
Bing Guan/Reuters
conjunctivities or simply called
pinkeye, then it is a sign of
the said virus. According to a
report on Arcturus by the Mayo
Clinic, the “itchy red eyes” are
symptoms not seen in earlier
waves.
For now, experts havr not
yet declared a cure nor a way to
properly prevent the virus. So
that is why, It is important for us
to be knowledgeable about the
Arcturus Virus that is spreading
across the Globe.
As the famous quote says
that “prevention is better than
cure.” We must be educated
about the risks of the virus, and
apply the right practices in order
for us to not get affected. In
order for ourselves to be safe and
those around us as well.
11
 SPORTS

Mati Eagles intimidates Tagum City,

13-2
By Renadelle Vertudes

M
ati Eagles governed Eagles.
the skies of Mati Eagles fixed the
Tagum’s EPark standing in Men’s Secondary
as they took over the game Baseball as they hailed as
by blowout against Tagum number six after Samal routed
Premiers during Davao them in the previous match,
Regional Athletic Association 12-3.
(DAVRAA) Meet 2023 Men’s
Secondary Baseball do-or-
die match last April 25, 2023
held at EPark, Tagum.
Tagum Premiers have
dedicated all of their blood,
sweat, and tears into this
tournament but were sadly
defeated in their homecourt
by the Eagle guests.
Karlo Bonotan, an Eagle,
led the team with admirable
skills and attitude. Eagles
showed their teamwork,
determination, and fighting
spirit constantly to fight
till the wrapped up. On the
other hand, Premiers have
astonishing skills but not
enough to counterattack the Illuminado Boiser Illuminado Boiser

Davao Regional Athletic Association makes comeback

By Renadelle Vertudes

C
inder dust and Association (DAVRAA)
gloomy weather Meet 2023 on Sunday,
cannot halt the April 23,2023 at Davao del
athletes. Davao del Norte Norte Sports and Tourism
officially opened the Complex, Tagum.
doors for the comeback of Despite the several
Davao Regional Athletic times that the opening
ceremony has been paused
due to the heavy rain,
delegates of different
provinces and cities
entered the sports complex
with humble smiles,
determination, fighting
spirit, and pride to represent
their respective clusters.
Total of 11 delegations
have joined DAVRAA
having Mati City, Panabo
City, Davao City, Tagum
City, Digos City, Island
Garden City of Samal,
Davao Oriental, Davao de
Oro, Davao del Sur, Davao
Occidental, and Davao
del Norte as the the host
province of this year ’s
DAVRAA version.

The Eastern Vigil 12

 Dorothy Mae B. Samson Kiarah Reyshylle C. Ibanez
School Paper Adviser, JHS School Paper Adviser, SHS

Kristine Shane Deodora

Editor in Chief

Alexa Ava S. Gatdula

Associate Editor

Venice Marielle S. Cillado Kejie R. Oppos Renadelle C. Vertudes

News Editor Feature Editor Sport Editor

Nastassja Evanna C. Hannah Nicole A. Alena Jane L. Zoe Allesandra S. Hallana Elien C.
Austria Baldomero Marcellones Malintad Desales
News Writer News Writer Feature Writer Feature Writer Sports Writer

Janika Gybrill T. Karen Joy P. Salamat Zemberg Luke Noel Kate Misa Justhine Orias
Mabandos News Writer P. Bucio Sci-tech Writer Opinion Writer
News Writer News Writer

Stephanie M. Taton Anthony Perominggan

News Writer News Writer

Lyka Ayenne A. Luyao Janielle C. Olay Bon Cedrick M. Suan Kara Arabella B. Garcia
Cartoonist Cartoonist Photojournalist Layout Artist

The Eastern Vigil 13