Banwag AY 2016-2017 Vol. 7 No. 2

CHED Supervisor

inspires SMC’s 66th

Commencement

Exercise

White Team Whips

The Eight Team

Colors, Champions

Kasaulogan 2016

FEATURED MICHAELITES:

YU & PENACO

PALER reigns for

the second time

as CSG KASAPI

President

SMC Senior High School:

House of Champions

Editor’s Note, Editorial Board------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1

Editorial---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2

Opinions--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3

WHITE TEAM WHIPS THE EIGHT TEAM COLORS, CHAMPIONS KASAULOGAN 2016----------------------------------------- 4

Paler reigns for the second time as CSG KASAPI President-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5

CHED Supervisor inspires SMC’s 66th Commencement Exercise------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6

SMC Higher Education Department and Senior High School Department Conclude School Year 2016-2017

with Annual Recognition------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7

10th Recognition of Rank Investure inaugurates----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8

College of Nursing Celebrates Pinning Ceremony--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9

CON participates 59th Regional Convention of the Philippine Nurses Association---------------------------------------------------- 10

Mr. Venjohn Nuñez encourages SMC College students to the 2nd Health and Safety Forum: HIV 101------------------------- 11

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT STRANDS: HUMSS, STEM, ABM PICTURES------------------------------------------ 12

Melit Jane Yu tops this year’s academic ranking,---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14

Senior High as the House of Champions--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14

Senior High School Department holds its 1st Research Workshop, Research Congress------------------------------------------- 15

Humanities and Social Sciences Strand celebrates National Arts Month through Spoken-Word Poetry------------------------ 16

‘Challenged but not missing the fun’, Ms. Pamela Dalman shares her experience as the first SHS principal of SMC------- 17

Death Penalty; A Youth’s Personal Sentiments------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18

Discrimination Breeds Contempt------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19

An Open Letter to the Fault Takers----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20

An Open Letter from Cancer------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21

Melit Jane Yu: a Woman a Leader----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22

The Calvin Penaco---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

Literary------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 24

Entertainment-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30

About the COVER

CHED Supervisor

inspires SMC’s 66th

Commencement

Exercise

White Team Whips

The Eight Team

Colors, Champions

Kasaulogan 2016

FEATURED MICHAELITES:

YU & PENACO

Big curly hairs, dark-skinned, tribal clothing; the unique portrayal

of the indigenous people from Luzon by the Blue Team was the reason

why they grabbed the limelight at the Merry Making competition of

Kasaulogan 2016.

II

PALER reigns for

the second time

as CSG KASAPI

President

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SMC Senior High School:

House of Champions

SMC continues embracing cultural diversity and teaches to understand

the differences of each individual which can be clearly displayed and

translated in various competitions in the institution. Hence, this issue

continues the legacy of publishing every endeavor made, every diversity

and every distinct quality of its students that contribute to progress and

success.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Calvin Penaco

NEWS EDITOR

Juan Miguel Rodriguez

NEWS WRITERS

Jan Danise Manapsal

Shoraym Casanguan

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Pretty Shayne Arnejo

MANAGING EDITOR

CARTOONIST

Jan Paolo Lumpaz

APRIL AL IAN T. JACOB

Adviser

Gritchelyn Talisic

PHOTOJOURNALIST

Christian Sevilla

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Aubrey Dorothy Macas

FEATURE EDITOR

Kassandra Buenafe

FEATURE WRITERS

Andrea Nicole Escarpe

Melit Jane Yu

CONTRIBUTORS:

Michelle Ann L. Paculanang

Jocelyn Estranas

Sheena Joy Padla

Leah F. Caumeran

Lhirry Jhon Demin

Harold Jay Lingatong

Alianah Jean Tumapon

Keven Opamin

I’ve input just enough keysmash—

just enough string of gibberish that basically

indicates what I want to say: I have no idea

what to really say. Quite more gibberish don’t

you think? This is probably one of the many

ways how I react to change. Yes, dear readers.

Here is your new not-so-acquainted editorin-chief

suddenly leading a group of young

writers. However, change is not only occurring

within me nor in the editorial staff; ladies and

gentlemen, Banwag publication team will be

in for a whole new world. With the new official

moderator of the team, Mr. Ian Jacob, we will

be molding the school publication to a better

rendition.

Banwag is now aiming for a systematic and

updated structure: making use of social media

to connect campus news to all members of the

institution. Basically, Banwag will be a beacon

of information and entertainment through

the art writing and technology. Trainings and

opportune seminars will also be arranged and

participated by the members of the publication

team for the honing of the writing skills for a

standard and systematized outlook of outputs.

In this way, campus journalism will be able to

“hit two birds in one stone”: reach out to all

members of the Michaelite community with

campus news and literary, and aid young

exemplary writers’ lust for the art of expression

through words.

Nevertheless, the hope for a successful outcome

is always prevalent. The change we are about to

face is yet to be reached entirely however, with

a clear sight of the outcome, nothing is really

impossible. The change we are about to face

is yet ungrasped, but certainly attainable. The

change we are about to face may question our

endurance and capabilities, but will certainly

provide amelioration: to the young writers, to the

school publication, and to the institution itself. It

wouldn’t take much route; probably just enough

keysmash—just enough string of gibberish to

make sense of all change we are about to face as

Banwag Society, as an institution of excellence,

as individuals experiencing change within for

the sake of betterment.

BANWAG | 1

EDITORIAL

Preparing for the New Education System

The introduction of the Kindergarten to Grade

12 (K-12) Program to the Philippine education

system is bound to make an even greater impact on

Colleges and Universities. It has already made its impact

since last year with the absence of College and University

enrollees as students spend two more years in high school

than they did in the previous curriculum. However, more

changes are expected to happen once students finish high

school and decide to go to College.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd)

anticipates that the curriculum for general education (GE)

subjects, which were taken up during the first two years

of college, will now be shortened to only one year since

those subjects are expected to be taken up in senior high

school (Grades 11 to 12). As a result, Engineering courses

are expected to be shortened from five to four years, while

other four-year college courses may also be shortened.

Colleges and Universities should prepare for these

changes as early as now in order to make tertiary education

cost-efficient for everyone. Since some subjects in the

current GE curriculum will now be taken up exhaustively in

Grades 11 and 12, repeating the same subjects in College

would become unnecessary. Therefore, high school

students should already be properly trained in these areas

before they enter College, which involves higher forms of

knowledge and more sophisticated concepts.

Tertiary education will be focused more on fields

of specialization rather than having to repeat basic areas

of knowledge and skills in the GE curriculum. The kinds of

changes to be implemented will still have to meet CHEd

standards of quality education.

This change would significantly reduce the time it

takes for students to graduate from College and eventually

find employment opportunities here and abroad. This

would also lessen the financial burden of tertiary education

as students would have fewer subjects to pay for and less

time to spend in school. This could mean so much to an

average Filipino family that usually struggles to make ends

meet.

Because Colleges and Universities are the final

levels of education for most students, they are responsible

for tailoring their services according to what high school

graduates need or not need. In view of a more cost-efficient

education system, the anticipated changes include, but

may not be limited to, the removal of unnecessary GE

subjects and shortening the number of years for courses.

These are important preparations to be made for the new

and arguably better education system.

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Political Issues affect

government employees

It’s called as the Majestic city of waterfalls because of

the numerous waterfalls located within the area and an

industrialized center of the south, a highly urbanized city in the

Northern Mindanao, Philippines, my home town and the place

where my heart beats for: Iligan city.

Our city is rich in nature and we should have leaders in

our city who will serve as our role models. They should create

aspiring visions of the future and motivate people to engage

with the vision. The people we look up to are supposed to

follow the rules regulated rather than violate them. They are

the ones who guide us in living for a brighter tomorrow of our

city. However, political issues are haunting not only our leaders

but also the citizens of the city. The latest issue we are facing

today is the insufficient supplemental budget for the workers of

the government which includes few departments of the city hall.

They have not yet received their salary due to this budget issue.

A lot of people have been affected with this situation.

I, not only as a student and a concerned citizen but also one

of the affected families to this issue is struggling. My mother is

the only person who brings money into our home and being a

government employee is the only source of her income and it’s

Jan Danise Manapsal, SHS

Cozying Up to Russia

and China

Calvin Penaco, CAS

OPINION

been 4 months without salary and the effects of this has brought

a lot of negative changes to our family.

This issue should be solved immediately for a lot of

people are depending on it. Citizens of the city work hard to

earn money and it is so disappointing to hear how workers

need to work hard and wait for a long time for their salary. The

budget for government employees are being distributed to each

departments that will undergo in a process until they are being

received by the workers but why haven’t they received anything?

The starting point of this issue could be tax evasion or corruption.

Recently, Mayor Celco Regencia shuts down a radio

station for failing to pay local taxes and secure its business

permit. Our city has improved a lot over the years and a lot of

industries are now engaging with us. It simply means that if a

huge number of industries are investing in our city then it is a

huge succor for the budget to government employees and to

the improvement of our city but If a lot of people will violate the

law then there would a lot of employees who will receive nothing

and as for corruption it is on our leaders hands if they want the

people of their city to succeed with them or selfishly watch them

as they work hard with their salary in their pockets.

President Rodrigo Duterte seems firm on his claims to

establish stronger relations with Russia and China

instead of the West. Recently, he rejected foreign aid from EU

that amounted to approximately 250 million Euros. This, however,

does not come as a surprise for many Filipinos because of the

administration’s recent announcement that it would not accept

foreign assistance from the EU because of its interference in the

nation’s domestic affairs, particularly its opposition to Duterte’s

drug war and human rights treatment.

Because of this, the Philippines’ pivot towards Russia

and China was also quite expected. China has already given

the Philippines billions worth of loan, and President Duterte has

recently asked for Russia’s help on arms due to a failed arms

deal with the United States. Is this pivot good for the Philippines?

The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or

no. Arguably, it is good for the Philippines because both countries

are still super powers. They both have strong economies, making

them very good trade partners for the Philippines.

However, this pivot to Russia and China also has its

risks. Russia and China are notorious in the international

community because of their history of abuse and treating their

political opponents with great hostility.

Russia is known for its “oil politics”. It has used its

economic and military resources to coerce political opponents

into submission. Notable examples of this are the Russia-

Georgia conflict and Russia-Crimea conflict. Even up to now,

Russia continues to fund rebels in Ukraine in order to destabilize

its government and continues to give its staunch support for

Bashar Al-Assad’s government in Syria.

On the other hand, the same can be said for China.

Its history is filled with human rights abuses, violations of

internationally agreed-upon principles, and abuse of power. It

has wide restrictions on freedom of expression and freedom of

the press. It has also stepped upon the rights of Tibetans and

Taiwanese people in their territorial conflicts. More importantly,

it claims ownership over the West Philippine Sea despite the

Permanent Court of Arbitration’s (PCA) ruling that China has no

legal basis for it.

One can argue that the West also has its share of

bad behavior, but what distinguishes Russia and China from

the West is their boldness in owning these violations. They

somehow recognize that they are in violation of certain rules

and conventions, but they do not care because they are super

powers. They have military and economic superiority, that even

the US would think twice about making a move against them.

For now, apart from losing our claim over the West

Philippine Sea and all its resources due to our fear of an

escalating conflict against China, the Philippines seems to be

doing fine with this shift of alliance. The great fear, however, is if

one of them decides to behave badly again and the Philippines

will have no choice but to give its support for fear of losing

the alliance. We have already compromised our territorial

sovereignty so as to appease China. It makes us wonder how

many principles we will have to compromise down the road to

continue appeasing them.

BANWAG | 3

NEWS

White Team whips The Eight Team Colors,

champions Kasaulogan 2016


As the institution commemorates its more than

a hundred years of existence on December,

2016, it marks an indeed indelible event to the Michaelite

Community. With numerous fun-filled events that touched the

interest of the participants, exciting twists and unexpected

guests, the event turned out to be a bombastic one. Bet that

most of the Michaelites were shocked and a little bit confused

with the fact that this kind of activity would be participated by

color teams composed of mixed colleges headed by different

dynamic color team masters.

Many did great and gave their very best performance

to different events from sports, cultural, brain challenge to

never-seen affairs but one team would be only recognized

as to be the best among the rest and that is the White Team,

they made it to the top! It would never be promising without

the supervision of Mrs. Pia Sison, the White Team Master.

Religious Activities were continually observed during

the Kasaulogan2016 Celebration

Traditionally, the community gives praise to the

observance of the highest form of prayer which is the Holy

Eucharist. Prior to every day’s event, it has always begun with

the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Moreover, as the commencement happens every

December, the institution also pays honor to the Blessed

Virgin Mother through Dawn Rosary around the city of

Iligan on the 8th. Although previously, December 7, 2016,

at around 6PM the city had its safety issues with regards to

the bomb explosion near the City Public Plaza. But, the so

called “threat” of the city’s safety was never considered as a

hindrance to those who are faithful. Thus, the Dawn Rosary

was, still, successfully observed although there was a change

in the route of the procession.

The neighboring schools of the Michaelite community

joined the activities in 101st Founding Years of St. Michael’s

College. They actively participated in literary, cultural and

sports. The whole SMC Family was so grateful for their

positive response to the invitation. Having this kind of activity

would show oneness among the youth of Iligan.

Alumni Corner: Continuing living its legacy of Humble

Service

As one of the core values, activities related to service

would be impossibly left behind more especially during the

founding celebration of the dearest alma mater of our Alumni.

This year’s alumni homecoming has the theme

“Michaelite Learns to Rock”. The touch of late 80s were their

choice of music and wardrobe.

4

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NEWS

Paler reigns for

the second time as

CSG KASAPI President


Garnering 62% of the total votes against the White Party’s Standard Bearer, Ms. Aubrey

Dorothy Macas (CED), the CSG-KASAPI (Central Student Government- Kakayahan

ng Samahang Pinagsama-sama) President for the Academic Year 2016-2017—Abegail Guillermo

Paler, an incoming 3rd year BS Accountancy Student, will continue her legacy and leadership for the

Academic Year 2017-2018.

Most of the aspiring student leaders under her party, the Blue

Party, triumphed over the rest of the positions. Vince Lubguban

(CED) as the Vice President- External, and the elected board

members of the colleges were Marve Jane Gallemaso (CED),

Charles Jegger Raagas (COC), Mikaela Sacar (CON), Jethro

Joseph Sebua (CHRM), Zennymarie Zamora and Paul Arman

Durango (CECS), Angel Zaragosa and Adelyn Collantes

(CBA), Jyana Gaea Malanog (COA), and Keith Ian Gallemit

and Liezyl Mae Cedeño (CASS).

For the White Party, respectively, Shanen Besas

(CED) won as the Vice President-Internal, Rowen Jane

Barros (CED), Roland Dave Felicidario (COC), Joan

Gaviola (CON), Kurt Justin Bagamaspad (CHRM), and

Heartzel Aira Gabe (COA) won as board members of

the student government.

“I am truly grateful especially to my fellow

Michaelites, for again, entrusting the position

to me“, said Paler. “Together, let’s have a

progressive and wholesome academic year

Michaelites!”, she added.

Nevertheless, given that the position

for CSG KASAPI Secretary is based on

appointment, Macas of the White Party will

take hold for the position as to the order

of the Dean of Student Affairs. The online

election for the new set of officers took

place at the Student Lounge last March 13,

2017.

BANWAG | 5

NEWS

CHED Supervisor inspires SMC’s 66th

Commencement Exercise

Michelle Ann L. Paculanang

Four hundred Sixty Three (463) Michaelite

Graduates were inspired by Commission on

Higher Education (CHED) Region X Education Supervisor

Mrs. Myrna I. Galanita with her life lessons which reminded

them that they should not wait for destiny to happen but

rather make their own destinies, during the St. Michael’s

College 66th Commencement Exercises on March 25,

2017 at St. Joseph Gymnasium.

The Graduation Ceremony marked the end of the

academic year and brought ticket for new opportunities

to the graduates. Graduation is a standard of student

excellence and achievement; hence, such success should

be celebrated in grand style. The school conducted it

on point as the venue was decked with exquisite flower

arrangements that brought a charming yet solemn touch

to the ceremony.

The Higher Education Department of St.

Michael’s College is a unique ecosystem where talent

6 | BANWAG

and creativity is nurtured. Accordingly, the graduates have

become empowered with the skills and attributes they

need to become the next generation who can make the

impossible possible. The event comes by with hardwork,

determination and perseverance, loyal to the core values

of St. Michael’s College which are faith, excellence and

service. Commencement Exercises is a befitting way of

honoring such virtues.

As expounded by Resource Speaker Galanita,

the graduation is a proof that someone took the first step

no matter how unsure they may be. With the guidance of

the school, these unsure steps turned into confident walk.

As the last note of the Alma Mater song was sung, the

graduates felt a different kind of achievement. The kind

of feeling that comes with the realization that although

things will change, they are ready to walk as world class

individuals.

NEWS

SMC Higher Education Department

and

Senior High School Department

conclude School Year 2016-2017 with Annual Recognition

As the school year 2016-2017 comes to an

end, the Higher Education Department,

together with the first batch of the Senior High School

Department had its annual Recognition Ceremony

last March 23, 2017 at St. Joseph Gymnasium.

The program started with a mass at exactly 1:00 in

the afternoon. Students from the two departments

who exceled both in academic and non-academic

performances were given medals and certificates

as a token of appreciation for nurturing the values

inculcated by the school. To recognize the students

who have embodied the spirit of excellence, it has

been a practice of St. Michael’s College to award

them every end of the academic year.

This is to give appreciation to the efforts

exerted by the students throughout the year and

to drive them into becoming more competitive not

just inside but also outside of the campus. Such

achievements were not just for themselves but

for every Michaelite to serve as a model and an

inspiration in carrying the SMC core values.

BANWAG | 7

NEWS

10th Recognition

of Rank Investiture

inaugurates

The 10th Recognition of Rank Investiture with

a theme “Witness of Ignacian-Marian Values-

Light Forces of Today’s World” happened on March 03,

2017, held at St. Michael’s College Basic Education

Department, Brgy. San Miguel, Iligan City and started

around 2:30 in the afternoon. The attendees of the said

event were PCI Jovani R Cabusas the guest speaker, the

RVM sisters, the OIC Dean of the College of Criminology

Noel D. Galabin, Jr., the faculties of the college, the proud

parents of the cadet officers and the criminology intern with

the full support of the school administrator Maam Ritzcen

A. Durango and Sir Romero C. Hermosilla.

Commissioning is one of the most awaited event

in the College of Criminology, especially, to the Vanguard

Society, where it is one of the custom and tradition being

practiced. This ceremony is the most memorable to the

vanguard officers, the deserving officers, for this is where

they are recognized and commissioned by the College

Dean with the invited Guest and on the same date they

are given the authority to give command to the cadets

in line with the Vanguard Constitution and By Laws and

the school policy (Gabay). This ceremony was done in a

battalion formation executing different military drills. The

purpose of the drill is to enable a commander or noncommissioned

officer to move his unit from one place to

another in an orderly manner; to aid in disciplinary training

by instilling habits of precision and response to the leader’s

orders; and to provide for the development of all cadets in

the practice of commanding troops.

The newly commissioned 1st class officers were

Peter John Monsanto, the Battalion Commander, Carlo

Miguel Carballo, Krezille Ermac, Judelito Carballo,

Joshua Hituya, Juhaiden Madaya, Samsodin Domrang,

Jeanlie Pahuyo, Joey Remolado, Ephrigm Remegio and

Leonardo Gumahad. Followed by the newly 2nd class

officers, Charles Jegger Raagas, Earl Jerald Padios,

Jonjon Senajon, Rocco Baura, Mary Mae Bicada, Jhunicel

Agawin, Jhon Clark Cabasag, Jerum Catana, Crystal

Ronnah Bihag, Jeah Bariñan, Trisha Jane Diron and Gene

Jabonillo.

The guest speaker was amazed seeing the young

cadets practice this kind of ceremony where it helps to

develop and mold the student discipline and exercise

the ethics and values to become effective and efficient

law enforcer someday. He inspired the young cadets by

saying that all efforts and difficulties that experienced by

a criminology student is a guiding principle to reach their

goal in life - to become a member of the law enforcement

agency. He also added that we should never forget all the

people around us and thank them for their contributions to

achieve our dreams in life especially our parents.

The vanguard society produces role models that

will foster the value of self-discipline, self-confidence, esprit

de corps among officers and members and transformation

of members to well-rounded, well-disciplined, communityoriented,

productive, and most importantly God-fearing

individuals whose cardinal advocacy is to faithfully deliver

excellent service to the community and become future

discipline and competent law enforcer. To the newly

commissioned officers, congratulations and more power.

God Bless!

8

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NEWS

College of Nursing

holds Pinning Ceremony

The nurse pinning ceremony is a symbolic

welcoming of the newly-graduated nurses

into the nursing profession. It is a meaningful event

which marked a new facet in the personal and

professional lives of the nursing graduates as they

celebrate a new chapter in life.

Last March 24, 2017 - the college of nursing

had their pinning ceremony in line with Baccalaureate

mass for the graduating students of SMC at the St.

Michael the archangel parish cathedral. The Batch

was presented individually by the Dean of the

College, Vincentino P. Librado RN, MN and the pins

were distributed by their Clinical instructor, Mae F.

Cabigon RN, MN. Parents/ guardian were emotional

as they emplace the pins marking the most awaited

success of the graduates.

The event was said to be memorable for this

batch since only six of them made it. They proved that

even though life had a lot of challenges that tried to

bring them down, they bounced back and came back

stronger. They bravely faced all of the challenges

because they never stopped dreaming and they

believed that “being in a difficult situation is not a

hindrance to continue life and face the future”.

Jocelyn Estranas and Jan Danise Manapsal

Being a nurse means that the patient in your

care is able to trust you and you will treat them with

kindness, respect, and dignity. Caring is one of their

main tasks; it entails commitment and unwavering

dedication to care, not only for the people they serve,

but to the profession and to their selves. It signifies the

call to life service to make a difference in the world.

“May we succeed in this mission to be a caring

nurse.. A nurse with compassion, confidence and

commitment towards excellent service to humanity,

to mark a new beginning.. Dare to reach our dreams”

said Jocelyn B. Estreñas

Wherever life will take them and wherever

they will be working, they will be great nurses with the

Marian and Ignacian virtues they have learned in St.

Michael’s College and that will make a difference in

each patient’s life they in contact with in the future. No

dream is too big even if the dreamer is small. There

is nothing that can stop us from dreaming and it is in

us whether we want to live with our dreams or just

let it go away. There are a lot of challenges we need

to face before we arrive to success but if you are

determine enough to reach it then do it.

BANWAG | 9

NEWS

CON participates 59th Regional Convention of

the Philippine Nurses Association

Sheena Joy Padla

The College of Nursing students and faculty joined

the 59th Regional Convention of the Philippine

Nurses Association (PNA) Region X held at Kaamulan Folk

Arts Theater, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon last November 10-11,

2016. Along with the theme, “Health Care System’s Resilience:

A Continuing Challenge for Nurses”. It is an annual gathering

of many nurses and student nurses of the different chapters

of the PNA to convene and remind the nurses and future

nurses of the vision of the organization as healthcare providers

in progressing to the welfare and development of globally

competitive Filipino nurses and to adhere to the principles of

ethical standards.

A motorcade around Malaybalay City was done after

the registration at the venue. After which, the representatives

of the different schools, hospitals and cities from Region X

were acknowledged then it was followed with a Eucharistic

Celebration. Subsequently, a night of fellowship during

dinner was the highlight of the first day of the convention.

The participants were able to socialize and jammed among

their fellow nurses and student nurses. The highlight of the

night was the pop dance competition with two categories:

Nurses’ category and Students’ category. SMC-CON students

mustered their courage and summoned themselves to join the

contest that night. They were able to bring home the bacon as

the 1st runner-up of the students’ category despite having an

off-chance due to time constraints of preparation and practice.

Then, short videos were presented which were made by some

nurses of the hosting group from Bukidnon chapter that showed

the funny side yet factual and tangible circumstances that are

experienced by a nurse in many areas from being a novice to

an expert.

An opening ceremony was held at the second day with

the seminar proper. The resource speakers were Elizabeth C.

Lagrito, EdD, RN, the PNA Governor of Region X; Elizabeth

L. Alagar, RN, MAN, Dean of the College of Nursing – Iligan

Medical Center College; and Vilma Comoda, RN, PhD, CSEE,

Chief Nurse of Southern Philippines Medical Center. The

keynote speakers were Nimfa B. Torrizo, MD, MPH, Director IV

DOH Region X; and Bgen Paulita B. Cruz (RET), National PNA

President. They made emphasis on the nursing trends that will

continue to impact the nursing professionals and the future ones

in the next decades who are working as the first line in providing

healthcare services. In general, the healthcare industry will

continue its evolution and demand for nursing services will

still continue to rise. With the technological breakthroughs,

nurses are now encouraged to adapt new methods of care

especially when planning to work overseas. Thus, demand for

nursing services is back again since the nursing veterans are

now gradually stepping down because of age and knowhow

on new hospital machineries. Another topic that was brought

to light was the Southeast Asian Integration that encouraged

many participants since it has been stated that, “the ASEAN

Economic Community Blueprint 2025 is aimed towards

achieving the vision of having an AEC by 2025 that is highly

integrated and cohesive; competitive, innovative and dynamic;

with enhanced connectivity and sectorial cooperation; and a

more resilient, inclusive, and people-oriented, people-centered

community, integrated with the global economy” (ASEAN Org,

2015). Wherein it includes the mutual arrangements of jobs

among the Southeast Asian countries, and even education,

trainings, investments are possible. The seminar ended with

an academic exchange and closing remarks and prayer.

A tour of the different beautiful sites of the province

should complete a seminar out of town. After a long day of

sitting inside the venue on the second day, the group decided

to visit Quadra: D’ Stable Eco Resort, a ranch-like scenery with

huts and cottages on verdant grounds and a mountain view

backdrop, where the students enjoyed riding the tall and kingly

stallions under the borderless sky and a brilliant sun slowly

setting its ribbon-like fire. During their last day, they also visited

the Monastery of the Transfiguration where they relished a

short time with God through peace and prayer fronting the

picturesque view of the mountain ranges of Bukidnon including

Mt. Kitanglad and the vast field of vibrant blooming flowers

and trees. Sure enough that a Bukidnon trip is not complete

without a stopover at Dahilayan Adventure Park in Manolo

Fortich. The students and even the clinical instructors were

overjoyed with the time spent at a magnificent landscape with

frosty-like temperature in spite of being pierced with the glaring

rays of the sun in the middle of the day. Some students even

rode breathtaking rides and some took the chance click and

create memories surrounded with wonderful towering pine

trees. Lastly, they had a quick stop at Camp Phillips: Del Monte

Pineapple Plantation to buy keepsakes and freshly picked

pineapples.

If three words were to describe the three-day trip

in Bukidnon of the College of Nursing, it would be: exciting,

discovering and life-changing. Indeed, it was an exciting

convention where the future Michaelite nurses were

discovering the new trends of the nursing profession yet had a

great jamming with their clinical instructors. It has been a great

related learning experience for the students to get together with

other people within the nursing profession and understand the

vision as future healthcare providers.

10

| BANWAG

Mr. Venjohn Nuñez encourages SMC College students to

the 2nd Health and Safety Forum: HIV 101

Mohammad Shoraym Casanguan and Leah F. Caumeran

According to the National Youth Commission (NYC), HIV in Philippines

is now youth epidemic with aged range of 15 to 24 accounted for an

estimated 62% of all new HIV infections. Our city has 42 cases of HIV infected,

15 to 18 as the most number of age brackets recorded of June 2016.

Last February 22, 2017, the college students of Saint Michael’s College

participated the 2nd Health and Safety Forum: HIV 101 Symposium at St.

Michael’s College auditorium along with the faculty & staff. The activity

started with a welcome address by our health and safety coordinator Sir Joseph

L. Villamor, RN, followed by the introduction of the resource speaker from the

City Health Office, the ever dynamic Mr. Venjohn Nuñez. He gave a lecture

on HIV 101; this includes the following topics: STI, HIV, and AIDS with a

testimony of an HIV patient.

The main goal of the forum was to instill awareness and

knowledge to students, faculty and staff. The said topics were

elaborated in accordance to its social importance. Moreover, he

discussed the mode of transmission, prevalence and importance

of early detection. The following day, February 23, 2017, the same

activity was done for the Basic Education Department at the SMC

gymnasium. Day 2 activity was spearheaded by Miss Amabelle

Redole, RN, giving emphasis of the same goal and relevance

of self-awareness and social consciousness.

The HIV 101 forum ended by giving heartfelt

appreciation to the speakers as they share their expertise

without any second thoughts. It was indeed an enlightening

lecture for the participating students, faculty and staff. This

kind of activity helped everyone understand more in dealing

with people affected by STI, HIV, and AIDS, as it raises

awareness and knowledge into averting the transmission of

these communicable.

NEWS

BANWAG | 11

HUM

ABM

Senior High Sch

STEM

ool Department

SS

SHS NEWS

Melit Jane Yu

tops this year’s

academic ranking


Landed on the spot as with High Honors, Melit Jane

Rosales Yu garnered the average grade of 96.2 and was

reigned as the overall top 1 amongst the three strands of

the Senior High School department in St. Michael’s College.

With minor awards as second place in the DSPC Radio

Broadcasting and champion in the YAPIS Impromptu Speech

competition. She was formally awarded last March 25, 2017

in the St. Joseph gymnasium along with the other students

with awards and who excelled academically.

At the end of the school year, the Academic

Excellence Award is given to learners from grades 1 to 12

who have attained a general average of at least 90 and a

passing final grade in all learning areas with no grades below

85. Despite having the title as Top 1, Melit also had led the

senior high school students through her governance as the

President of the Central Student Government. Moreover, she

proved that academics an leadership may be a hard thing to

balance and manage but she proved people wrong.

Senior High

as

the House of Champions


It was the first commencement of the Senior High

School in St. Michael’s College and despite of the diversity,

everyone eventually achieved unity. From the students coming

from distinct and different junior high schools, squads, social

groups and even in religion, it signified as a challenge upon

us. When the students are united by shared values and goals

of a true Michaelite, we can move together, synchronizing

our strengths to attain things that none could attain alone.

Unity is built around a common purpose that creates a shared

identity. And that is the identity of being a champion.

Months had passed and since then, we have proven

to the society and to ourselves that we are triumphant

champions. Together, we had overflowing success towards

being hailed as the Over-All Champion both in the categories

of English and Filipino in the Divisions Schools Press

Conference which is accompanied by innumerable first places

that gave us the opportunity to be the representatives of Iligan

City in the Regionals Schools Press Conference. And again,

we also had been praised as the Over-All Champion amongst

the myriad of schools competing in the Youth Advocators

Productive Integrated Service (YAPIS) event. In the field

of journalism, there are a large number of students in St.

Michael’s College particularly in Senior High School who are

finalists to the 3rd Mindanao Journalism Excellence Awards

under the categories of News Writing, Feature Writing, and

Sports Writing.

Amidst the trophies, gold medals and the awards,

what really makes a champion? You see, the real champions in

life are those who have the courage to see the unimaginable.

They are the people who overcome and endure through all

difficulty and dilemma. They learn from their mistakes, and

no matter what, they never give up on their dreams. It is the

process of ripping off the masks of solitude, silence and low

self-esteem of themselves. At the end of the day, we should

still seek refuge and guidance to God. We all have stories to

tell, however this is just the beginning of our journey towards

becoming a real champion and proving it to the world that we

can and we will.

14

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Senior High School Department holds its 1st

Research Workshop, Research Congress

Harold Jay Lingatong

Research being a core subject in the Curriculum, Senior High

School Department held its 1st Research Writing Workshop,

and Research Congress across the three offered strands of the Institution,

HUMSS (Humanities and Social Sciences), STEM (Science, Technology,

Engineering, and Mathematics), and ABM (Accountancy, Business, and

Management).

On January 27, 2017, Prof. Lynnie Ann Deocampo of MSU-IIT’s

English Department, facilitated the Research Workshop as the Speaker-

Facilitator at St. Joseph Gymnasium. Students were given the chance

to brainstorm relevant topics to research about. The workshop allowed

them to work with a team on a certain research endeavor they have just

conceptualized during the workshop.

Research has always been a part of the life of every student and

faculty in the Academe. Its primary goal is to foster new ideas and knowledge

that can be benefited by the society. Throughout the 20th century, our views

of life are partly the same as we view life in the 21st century. Unchanged

images, immovable problems, and unclear solutions are the reason why

researchers should have to conceptualize better ideas over the present

solutions with regards to solving the existing problems. Research congress,

on the other hand, is the way on how to properly disseminate information

in order to have a good research outcome. It is the most accessible way

for students to clarify any of the things which made them confused and

showcases many different disciplines and guidelines in order to have a

concise and brief foundation of research paper.

Pursuing a research project is never easy. It takes months before

you can feel the season of joy and it needs courage with determination to

reach the peak of the highest mountain. However, it is the most challenging

and fulfilling experience where opportunities enable you to have an in-depth

study about the topic of interest. Everyone dreamed to have a good and wellconducted

research that is vital to the success of global moor endeavors.

Good research outcome not just produces results that are applicable for

peers, family members, or can be applied to real world situations but it also

dwell on practicality. Researchers, however, must give their best since the

knowledge they equipped, which serves as a tool for enhancement of the

society is where greatest research lies.

Furthermore, a Research Congress after a month followed wherein

Researchers from the Higher Education Department presented their

papers to the Senior High School Students. HUMSS students witnessed a

research presentation from the College of Arts and Sciences, and College

of Education; ABM students with the College of Business Administration;

and STEM students with the College of Engineering and Computer Studies.

Truly, Senior High School Researchers not just settle for grades

but are now ready to take on the challenge to be a transformed and

competitive citizen.

SHS NEWS

BANWAG | 15

SHS NEWS

Humanities and Social Sciences Strand celebrates

National Arts Month through Spoken-Word Poetry

Kassandra Buenafe

The HUMSS Strand of St. Michael’s College culminated their

Poetry Season as part of the Creative Writing Major Subject by having

a night of poetry and acoustic music as its means of celebrating the

National Arts Month.

At exactly four in the afternoon of February 2, 2017, the

students from the HUMSS strand gathered at the St. Joseph auditorium

and prepared themselves for the event. It is not the usual spoken

word poetry night where artists get to showcase their pieces without

restraints in cafes or in gigs perhaps, because the four sections under

the HUMSS strand performed but at the same time competed against

each other, hence there is pressure and rules to follow. One

important guideline was to have the poems written and delivered

in the native language- Cebuano. Each section is represented by

eight members and each one should present an individual poem

based on the chosen theme of the group on a limited time. The

judges for the competition are Kim Escalona, Rohanimah Guro

and Earl Espere who are poetry enthusiasts and are part of the

group The Authorities.

The first to present was Grade 11- St. Luke, who

wonderfully showcased various poems about “kasakit” or pain. The

second performers were from St. John and they also happened

to be the winner for the night’s event and two of their poems that

were about the different talks of love won as best piece and the

performers, as best poets. Grade 11- St. Mark placed second

and Grade 11- Matthew came in third, who all performed poems

under the theme of love. In between the poetry performances were

acoustic presentations from the talented people of the HUMSS.

After that, the judges performed some of their pieces and

definitely inspired the crowd. “I am not a poet, because I am so much

more…” this line is taken from the last poem they executed and the

students were in awe and were moved to truly appreciate the beauty

of art as a form of expression and authenticity.

It is in these kind of events where we discover that the most

beautiful things in life are not materials, salaries and allowances but

love, art, music and poetry.

16

| BANWAG

SHS FEATURE

‘Challenged but not missing the fun’, Ms.

Pamela Dalman shares her experience as the

first SHS principal of SMC

Jan Danise Manapsal

Students are mostly afraid of ‘terror’ principals but there’s one woman who can show you that

there’s no need to impose terror to guide your students, rather become a friend whom they can have fun

and share stories with.

Ms. Pamela Dalman was a high school teacher in Saint Michael’s College Basic Education

Department for fifteen years. She transferred to higher education later on and became the head of the

College of Criminology. She was then the Dean of Students Affairs for four years and had an on the job

training for director until she became the first ever principal of Senior High School Department of St.

Michael’s College.

Her journey as a teacher had drastic changes but her loyalty and service to SMC were consistent.

There were many factors that prompted her to become a more productive Michaelite, these include her good

relationship with her co-personnel, school admin’s trust to her and most importantly, her relationship

with her students. She believes that having conversation with her students like

h o w

friends do and try to blend in with their environment could create a bond that will

help

them open up and for her to be aware on what she needs to do so she can help

them with their needs and guidance in terms of school activities.

“As a SHS principal, she makes sure that every individual shines and

unloosen all of their aptitude through her words of encouragement and thoughts

that sounds so comforting at all times. You could see her at the hallways

roaming to check and secure her children, just like a mother does. “James

Sildo, an ABM student said when asked about Ms. Pamela.

She enjoys working with her students who are eager to learn

and determined enough to reach for their dreams.

“Being a first time principal for SHS, all I can say is that

I was challenged and at the same time happy kaya chill lang

because I enjoyed to be with the tireless teenagers of today.

Being a teacher in high school for fifteen years had helped

me a lot on how to handle and to be with the millennial

who are so active and challenging. It was more like a fun

challenge in dealing with them. We share stories and

experiences and work together as a team.”

Ms. Pamela Dalman is definitely an inspiration

to every student. Everyone is looking forward to share

another fun-filled year with her but Ms. Pamela herself is

more excited to work again with the students and guide

them as they make their dreams come true. A continuing

journey for Grade 12 students and a new beginning for

Grade 11 students will soon start. She is expecting the

Grade 11 students to be productive and focused on their

studies especially in complying all the performance tasks

given and a more challenged year for the Grade 12 since this is

the peak of their Senior High School journey.

BANWAG | 17

FEATURE

Death penalty is the sentence of execution

for murder and some other capital crimes (serious

crimes, especially murder, which are punishable by

death). The death penalty, or capital punishment,

may be prescribed by Congress or any state

legislature. Capital punishment in the Philippines

has a varied history and was currently suspended

on 2006. It was legal after independence and

increased in use under the Ferdinand Marcos

regime. After the fall of Marcos, there was a

moratorium on capital punishment from 1987–

1999, followed by a resumption in executions from

1999–2006, followed by a law ending the practice.

The death penalty seems likely to return to the

Philippines; President Rodrigo Duterte, elected in

2016, is a vocal supporter of resumption of capital

punishment. Filipinos have mixed opinions about

the death penalty, with many opposing it on religious

and humanitarian grounds, while advocates see it

as a way of deterring crimes.

As a Filipino youth I would like to assert my

thoughts regarding the imposition of Death Penalty

in the Philippines.

Firstly, we are dedicated citizens of a

democratic country. We keep claiming and

reasoning with our right for freedom. Why would

anyone allow the imposition of Death Penalty when

this country is inclined to Democracy where the

basic tenets are to Respect Human Rights, and

the Rule of Law to be revered? Moreover, people

aggressively fight for the permission of death

penalty and seem to choose Democracy but is only

inclusive to certain aspects of Justice without even

considering the right to life of an individual. We

seem to be fighting the same for the freedom of

speech and information only to wreck ourselves by

a chunk of our own apathy.

Secondly, as a youth of the Catholic Church,

I claim my stand with regards to the fact that no one;

not the military people, the police, the government

officials, the religious practitioners, and not even the

president of the Philippines himself, has the right to

take anyone’s life. The Almighty gave us the gift of

life wherefore He is the only one positioned to take

it. Killing either an innocent or a murderer makes

you a murderer yourself. We have to be mindful

that we do not own our lives, much more the life

Death Penalty; A Youth’s

Personal Sentiments


of others. Furthermore, the body is made in God’s

image and likeness; harming it in different aspects,

including killing compensated by murder and capital

punishment alike, is revoking to the commandment

of the Lord. We cannot deny the fact that we value

our morals as a nation valuing religion.

One might have the impression that I am not

aware of the sufferings of the families of the victims,

or the victims themselves; that I am one who does

not exert empathy for one who seem to have not

been directly abused. Mind you, I am perfectly

aware of the inkling. But I have never recalled any

thought that empathy must be expressed only by

being against Death Penalty. Let’s say someone

who is wrongfully accused, and is incapable of

being secured with a reliable lawyer to defend

him from a wealthy accuser who merely wants the

accused dead is sentenced to capital punishment,

what would happen? Would the accused, whom

never had a single intake of drug or has not harmed

anyone or was ever a virgin much more ever raped

someone, die in vain? Or will he die in discontent

because of the justice system?

My point here is, death penalty is not the

only resolution for capital crimes. Injustice has

imprisoned lots of innocents easily already and I

cannot seem to image the prospect of more of them

being sentenced to death. What alternative would

be better? I’d say a firmer, more established and

duly followed due process of law. It does not satisfy

the casualty it brought to the victim and his/her

family? Then sentence the declaimed and justified

culprit to life imprisonment where death itself will

claim them without anyone directly taking someone

else’ life.

You see, the problem is not the people’s

commitment to capital crimes. The problem is in

our justice system. People are easily manipulated

by money and blackmail: let this not be a variable

for unjust judgments; let this not be a variable for

taking lives. No one should be “deprived of life,

liberty or property without due process of law”.

Death penalty is not entirely essential to aid the

casualty brought by a crime, but firm due process

and fair judgment without consideration of irrelevant

variables is. Punishing violence with violence,

should be beneath us.

18

| BANWAG

Discrimination Breeds

Contempt

Andrea Nicole Escarpe

FEATURE

Calam, Karen Mae L., University of San Carlos;

Khio, Alanna Gayle Ashley B., Silliman University;

Lao, Fiona Cristy D., University of San Carlos;

Allana Mae A. Babayen-on, University of San Agustin;

Justin Ryan D. Morilla, Ateneo de Davao;

Mark Dave M. Camarao, Northwestern University;

Momongan, Anne Margaret E., University of San Carlos;

Gomez, Jefferson L., University of San Carlos;

Gonzales, Nia Rachelle M., University of Batangas;

Ybio, Marie Chielo H., Silliman University;

Liu, Andrew Stephen D., Silliman University

A lawyer’s path is narrow and tough. Many

have walked but only few are fated. Many tried to

enter but only few had passed. Among the 6,000

examinees who ran in the race of professionalism,

the names above are the top 10 names who wielded

a tremendous effort to grab the first spots of the

115th Bar Examination. It is administered among

the 3,317 fresh faces, and 3, 514 re-takers from the

different parts of the country and as you can see, the

top passers are all from Visayas-based universities

and as they celebrate in glory for their success,

some are not just happy about it.

It has sparked doubt among netizens

especially from people of the Luzon region and

they did not fail to express their disappointment on

social media and some have even questioned the

integrity of the results saying that it is quite fishy that

no Manila-based schools got in, which then resulted

to a domino-effect of reactions and name calling as

the people from Visayas and Mindanao felt that their

intellect has been insulted and degraded.

Psychologically explained, it may be due to

the short term shock resulted to discouragement

that some people lead on concluding things out

of control. Discrimination then rises. As a country

divided into thousands of islands, composed of

different wonderful cultures, we must learn to accept

and respect one another. Nobody should feel

superior and nobody should be treated as someone

inferior. But it seems impossible to eradicate or even

try to lessen discrimination in our country when

people feel like we have to fight over something we

should be celebrating as a nation.

“One country, one nation” that’s how we

quote it. But at the end of the day, the real question

we should really ponder on is, do we really uphold

the significance of it?

BANWAG | 19

LITERARY

An Open Letter to the

Fault Takers


Mistakes may define how people see you, but it

does not define who you really are.

It’s disturbing to think how people start to see

you differently as soon as you make a mistake; you

become an entirely different person to their eyes,

much more different and rash on how they treat you as

soon as you commit an act dishonorable to the views

of people. You cannot blame them anyway; they have

their own views and values. You did wrong and they

have the freedom to express their views and opinions.

Your stand is a mere excuse for your fault because

the fact that you did it is eventually scrutinized to be

basically wrong even if you tilt the world upside down.

You may have lived a moral life, or looked up

to, or probably the least of the people expected to do

inappropriate actions before you committed one. The

fact that you might have tainted other’s reputation

aside of your own character might even ache you just

as more. Moreover, even those whom you did not

commit the mistake at, who merely heard the issue,

treats you just as rash and hurtful. You probably

felt guilty. You probably felt ashamed for committing

such act. You may have, and actually should have

acknowledged such grave act you carried out, never

denied, conceded the wrong you have done and

acknowledged the consequences. Unfortunately, such

views are irrelevant to them.

And their views should be irrelevant to you

either.

Instead, you have to stop succumbing yourself

from the aftermath of your mistake. I am aware how

ignoring their rash treatments and injurious comments

about you may seem easier said than done. But it

should be worth the try, don’t you think? Prove yourself,

regain and better your character to become someone

worthy. People may not completely see you in a new

light and only see you for the mistakes you’ve made;

they may still not realize that you are not your mistakes

and still mutter words that relive your faults, but believe

me, that won’t matter as much at all anymore. “You’re

going to make mistakes in life. It’s what you do after

the mistakes that counts.” Brandi Chastain, a retired

female football player, said these words herself.

Don’t let yourself be defined by the mistakes

you commit, but be someone who is defined by how

you respond to those mistakes. After all, mistakes are

inevitable for a reason; they are there to guide you

and teach you a lesson. You have to be prepared to

make all the mistakes necessary to give yourself the

experience it takes to get to where and who you want

to be. You cannot please everyone, but you can always

please yourself with a molded character undefined

from mistakes, but an erudite of it.

20

| BANWAG

LITERARY

An Open Letter from

Cancer


I know your suffering little girl. Every

scratch and itch you make on your skin makes

your body a scarlet red canvass. Sleepless

nights makes your eyes so hollow. And I

loved your black straightened hair. So I

pick a handful of it each day like those

plucked daffodils beside your hospital

bed. Bones grew weaker so you

crawl towards the wheelchair. You

have seen that I took your mother,

then your aunt and now it’s you

that I’m coming for. I created

havoc in your holy temple,

numbed your soul with the

fruits of medicine, and slowly

you

will morph into someone that

p e o p l e couldn’t recognize.

How funny it is that the air is free but you

pay for it. Breathe with me, bleed out with me. I

remember the day I first latched on your body, you

were innocent and free. But now I’ve chained you.

I own you. This spreading so symphonic. Your

mouth is an orchestra of suffering until we dance to

each cell split and spread in your body. Your heart is just as big as they all said it was, but not as strong.

Hush now, breathe a little.

Call and pray each saint you know, they can’t help you. Statues of gold and ivory are still and

lifeless so don’t call out to them. Little girl, you have me. I will show you heaven, baby. No medicine can

kill the whole me so you try to slow me down. Slowing the process of my cells to kill you. I already opened

a coffin for you at the altar my bride. My love, you are already chased by the chariots of time. And I’ll wait

for you, quiet and patient. You will meet me there, in eight months or four months or two. Until you wake

up with blood rusts in your bed or a tremulous wasp in your brain.

Little girl, I know that you want me dead.

Fine, die with me.

BANWAG | 21


There is a crisis among women towards an identity

that matters and a voice that is heard. One should know how

to identify a great leader because it is impossible to value,

admire and respect someone if you don’t know its essential

distinctive characteristic. While the tide is changing and more

women are being appointed and elevated into leadership

roles, there is still a lack of conviction among women leaders

by the eyes of society.

A paradoxical woman that embodies prose and poetry

which possesses persistence, passion and empowerment.

Following her roots of legacy, it all started at her humble

home. Wherein her mother taught her the essence of a

woman and one’s capability towards instinct, practicality and

emotional intelligence. Along with the lessons she acquired,

she flourished to be an erudite student whilst being a student

leader as well.

Melit Jane Rosales Yu is notable for her prolonged

loyal service in St. Michael’s College. She governed for two

consecutive years of being the CSG President since the school

year 2015 to 2016 and recently the Senior High School

grade eleven CSG President. She is a strong-willed

debater, an outstanding impromptu speaker, an

enlightened poet, and a humble student who

is always on the pinnacle amongst other

students garnering the class valedictorian

in elementary and junior high school and

the recent top one of the last school

year in the Humanities and Social

Sciences strand.

Despite her governance and

an influential personality, she also

displayed a deeper and elegiac side

of her, renowned for her figurative

and sensitively emotional style of

expression through the words that

escapes from her mouth and

through spilling it on paper.

Melit rightfully deserves

to be considered as a young

pioneer regarding the pillars of

leadership in the institution of

St. Michael’s College and in

the city.

She

proved

that being a

woman was no hindrance

in the performance of her

leadership, and that she

is equally up to the task

of governing. This is the

legacy of Melit Jane Rosales Yu that she left behind and may

we see her in the future to be eminent and prosperous but

still looking back at her past as one of the competent, humble

and a God-fearing Michaelite student.

1. How did you become both a student leader and

an achiever as well?

: I can hardly remember how it all began but ever

since I was in grade school, I have garnered awards, year by

year, medal by medal, recognition to graduation. Personally,

there is a great sense of pride and blissfulness knowing that

your hard work and effort has paid off. Although every time

I would go up the stage, trying hard to stop my knees and

hands from shaking because of nervousness of knowing that

everyone’s eyes are looking at me, the only thing that would

calm me down is seeing my parents walk towards me down

the aisle, with such pride and contentment painted on their

faces. Ever since, it has been my goal to see that scene again

at least once a year.

There are those who doubted my capabilitiesnumber

one was I, myself but I couldn’t just spectate while

the whole system run knowing that I could make a

difference. Still, the doubt was there until one of

my teachers who saw my potential signed me up

for candidacy. Although out of my will, I wasn’t

completely hesitant so I gave it a shot. Failing

two times in a row from running for property

custodian to vice president, on my third and

last chance, I ran for presidency and Gods

were good, I won. As long as my skills and

capabilities would be of good use to me and

the people around me, I did not mind serving

the school while keeping a good record of my

academics.

2. When you write, what or who

is your inspiration?

:Whenever I feel

something, I write about

it. Whether it be agony,

melancholy, glee, wrath and

even a pathetic heartbreak.

3. Why do you think

that you are a paradox?

: This can be

answered by my enigmatic

poem entitled, “She”. Even

though it is perplexing and

self-contradictory, that was the

truth of who I am.

22 | BANWAG

Kassandra Buenafe

“But if you think you have this particular interest in speaking your

mind and standing up for what you think is right, you’re probably a good fit for

debating.”

You may have heard of debate - which most people directly associate

with arguing and exchanging of claims or you may have experienced it first-hand.

Whatever relationship you’ve had with debating, it all boils down to one impression,

it is not easy. A lot of time and effort has to be invested in order to be good at it.

You have to value the things it embodies like respecting different standpoints and

speaking for what is right. It is one form to openly discuss about the controversial

issues in the world, which in that sense makes debating something that some people

aspire to pursue but most of the time, haunt them.

But to give you a more legitimate point of view with what debating is and

how it can greatly change lives, we’ve interviewed Mr. Calvin Penaco, an AB English

student from SMC who has already been into numerous debating competitions. Get

to know him as he shares his experiences, advices and stories of struggle in this

online interview.

Q1: How long have you been debating?

: I think I started in 2009. That was when I was like super new to debating.

And then I stopped competing in 2015 because I felt like I needed a break. Haha. And

from there, in and out of debate na. Now what I do most of the time is adjudicate for

local and regional tournaments.

Q2: When you felt that you needed a break, did you also have hesitations

of going back to it or it never really crossed your mind to quit from debating?

: Hmm.. To an extent, I did. But it wasn’t because I was still feeling tired

of debating. I actually missed it a lot. It was more because I felt like the varsity no

longer needed me. They had been practicing for several months. They had kept on

inviting me to return and I never did. Also, I was afraid they had bad feelings about

me suddenly leaving and that gave me the thought that maybe, I was not welcome

anymore. But I think it was all just me. I could have come back anytime if only I had

been brave enough. Haha. So short answer, yes I did have some hesitations but for

a different reason.

Q3: But definitely, things have fallen in their perfect places, right? You still

excel at it and as what you’ve said you adjudicate for local and regional tournaments.

What’s the most memorable thing in this journey?

: I guess you could say that. Haha. I’m pretty satisfied with where I am

now as far as debating is concerned. The most memorable thing would be the time

we won the Mindanao Parliamentary Debating Championship (MPDC) in Davao. It

was the first win of MSU-IIT in MPDC, so everyone was so proud. It felt like it was

the fruit of our hardwork. We had been training so hard before that tournament. We

had wanted to quit so many times. So we were very happy when we finally won.

That moment actually brought back a lot of memories about debating - our practices,

training, failures, bad speeches, previous defeats, etc. In the end, we felt that it was

all worth it. I guess that is what every win feels like, especially when it’s your first.

Q4: What is your favourite speaker role when debating?

: That would be the deputy speaker role, simply because you could

respond to arguments and construct your own at the same time. I used to love the first

speaker role, but now I love the deputy role more. I think I love being able to respond

because it is in the responses that you really see the clash of ideas.

Q5: So you write for the school’s official publication, you’re a consistent

Dean’s Lister and a very successful debater and (who knows what else you could

do), do you see this whole “overachiever” thing more of an advantage or a burden?

I mean, I assume a lot of people would be too intimidated to walk up and talk to you

(that definitely includes me) and that also leads to many folks expecting much and

looking up to you.

: Good question. Objectively speaking, it’s both advantageous and

burdensome. But in my case, I feel like it’s more of a burden. I’m not saying it’s

a bad thing to achieve things. I guess my personality simply doesn’t want this

school celebrity status. As much as possible, I want to keep a low profile. That’s

why apart from what happens inside the classroom, I don’t do anything noticeable.

I don’t want people to feel awkward in my presence or that they are not allowed to

make mistakes when I’m around. I don’t want them to think that they can’t talk to me

because their conversation topics might be a little too low or cheap for me. I hate it

when my presence alone makes people uncomfortable, because it also makes me

uncomfortable. I guess I simply dislike drawing too much attention and expectations.

I hate disappointing anyone. I hate it when people think I can’t make mistakes about

this or that, or that I will always have an answer to everything. So, I honestly think of it

more as a disadvantage. Maybe if there was a way to excel at a lot of things and not

draw too much attention at the same time, I would probably take that.

Q6: So as someone who is apparently pro at debating, what is your advice

to those who want to try it but are scared enough to do so?

: Haha. Siguro kuan, I understand the fear. I was scared too at first. I think

stage fright is one of the most common fears of people around the world. There’s

something about speaking in front of a crowd that makes us want to disappear for a

short while. But if you think you have this particular interest in speaking your mind and

standing up for what you think is right, you’re probably a good fit for debating. To be

honest, it’s a very difficult “sport”, probably more difficult than any other endeavours

out there. It requires a lot of critical thinking, open-mindedness, and getting up to

speed with news and current affairs. Most of the time, it is a game of survival of

the fittest. If you don’t have thick skin and can’t handle constructive criticisms, you

probably wouldn’t last in the debating community. But if you choose to stay despite all

the disappointment and frustration, you will realize it’s the best decision you have ever

made. The reward definitely comes in the end. So you just have to take the first step.

A good part of debating is overcoming stage fright; so, the fear will also be gradually

addressed as you go along. Just take the first step and you will see whether you’re

a good fit. I must say it’s not for everybody. Many have tried and failed. Some failed

and then quit. In my case, I failed several times. But I got back up each time. I wanted

to quit so many times. I felt like I wasn’t getting any better, but I was. I just didn’t see

it. So I guess it’s one of those experiences that you will never know unless you

try. So you gotta try.

Even the best ones didn’t

go through a smooth sail. Mr. Calvin

himself has proven that every debater

started from bits, had moments of

self-doubting and had pressure to deal

with before he has finally gotten where

he is.

Let this be an inspiration

to everyone who feels like they’re not

meant for debating and the things

they want do, this is for the people

who has constantly struggled

with failure, know that

the inevitability of it

is something that

should not stop

you from trying

again.

BANWAG | 23

LITERARY

Never-Ever Land

Melit Jane Yu

“Why do you write fiction?” My pen halts,

leaving an unfinished stroke of the letter T. That sudden

question breaks the silence in that dusty old room. I

raised my head and let out the words “To disappear.”

with a sigh. I let that answer float in the air for a while.

Looking back at the paper, I continue to write the

words…

I wake up to the aroma of my mother’s cooking.

“Bacon.” I inhaled. Sunlight was touching my eyes from

the half-rolled blinds on the window as I stretch out of

bed. I glimpse at my clock. It was 6:30 AM. My pet

Cat, which was a dog was already awake, too, playing

with my little brother, George outside the house. Cat

is a golden retriever. Funny name? Not to mention

George’s pet goldfish named Silver.

Instead of hurrying to the shower, I like to stay in

the kitchen and watch my mother’s cooking, instead. I

had no reason to rush anyways. You see, school starts

whenever we students want to. We weren’t obliged

to be there at 6 or 7, but at least at

10 or earlier everyone

was disciplined

enough to

b e

around.

“Good morning, sweetie.” My mom gives me

a kiss, as she slid a plate to the table. “Garnet.” My

name was carved on my plate. My mom, dad, and

George had theirs carved too. My mom really is corny

but sweet.

Bacon and egg it is. I was about to take my first

bite when my mom said, “Uh-uh, shower first.” I did

what I was told.

I walked in to the shower room as the automatic

door opens and then locks just as I entered. The

curtains drop and the lights turn on. I looked at my

unclothed image in the mirror’s reflection. My eyes

shone the color brown, like a fresh young wood’s.

Seems like my excessive travelling and playing

sports made my white skin become tan. By travelling,

I mean hopping from island to island and by sports, I

mean quidditch. Yes, the one where two teams, seven

players each, ride hover boards instead of broomsticks

and catch four balls: a Quaffle, two Bludgers, and the

Golden Snitch.

Good thing I remained slender despite eating

a lot. Have I grown taller? I noticed my wavy golden

hair has reached my hips now. My sixteen-year-old

body was healthy.

After showering, I leave the bathroom,

excitedly took my plate and sat beside my brother

who was also eating on the sofa, watching cartoons.

My father was reading and watching the daily news

through the hologram, a cup of coffee in his hands. No

wonder why he loves to read because all that he hears

from the news would be updates, advancements,

sugar, spice, and everything nice.

At 9 o’clock, I wore my uniform: white collared

blouse, maroon checkered above-the-knee skirt, and

a black necktie. Inside my bag were a few notebooks,

a pen, and my necessities. There was more space for

me to place any books that I liked. The school doesn’t

really require heavy textbooks. There were no home

works, as well.

I wore my school shoes as dad in his suit fixes

his tie, and George, also in his uniform drops fish food

in Silver’s small tank. We kissed mother goodbye

before leaving the house.

Father opens the door, the light from

the outside, temporarily blinds me. I blink a few

times to get a clearer view and I witness this

spectacular view once again. Soaring buildings

and infrastructures are everywhere. Bridges and

roads, houses and automobiles. You can still see

green, for there were a lot of trees as well. Bodies

of water from swimming pools to rivers, to falls, to

oceans were still present, preserved. No one was

24

| BANWAG

LITERARY

suffering in poverty.

You would not believe the view when it’s

nighttime. The skies would look like galaxies!

Our house is located on the 67th floor of Sky

Tower building. The government? What government?

We need not any dictators. We were all disciplined so

there was no room for violence, corruption, injustices

and any schemes.

That’s because the current administration

makes us feel that way. Everyone was treated fairly.

Our planet only had one President: Mr. Dante Utopia.

He has been serving the people for more than 30

years now. Nobody would want him out because his

laws and conditions were nearly perfect. Another thing

is, we’re neighbors.

“Good morning, Addams!” We hear someone

shout from nearby. “Oh, good morning, Mr. President!”

my father replies. “Good morning, Dante!” George

joyfully inserts while waving at him. I held back my

laughter as dad stares at George with the expression

in his face. “Sir…” George added, realizing his mistake.

“I apologize, Mr. Utopia, Sir.” Dad said but the

president just laughs and bids us farewell, “Good bye

Addams. Good bye little George!”

I see Drake walking outside of their house,

approaching his father, Mr. Utopia. He was asking him

something when he noticed his dad was just talking

to us. He looks in our direction. Our eyes meet but I

immediately look away. I felt my heart skip a beat, and

then reverberate in my chest.

“Hey, Garnet.” Drake smiled. “Hey…” I replied.

Father whistles in some kind of patterned

sound, and that woke me up back to my senses. Our

car, Nimbus 2000, which was parked underground

floats to the 67th floor in no time. The car beeps and

opens, recognizing dad’s fingerprint. There were no

need for keys and yes, cars fly. I snapped my fingers

and a holographic phone appears in my palm. I tap

both my ears with my fingers, and I was able to listen

to music of my own choice as I enjoy the beautiful view

of this city.

Welcome to the year 2200. Welcome to Neverever

Land.

I wake up to the smell of burning plastic outside

and the noise of wailing sirens. I wipe the drool off

my mouth and massaged my temples to relieve my

headache and the pain in my neck. I realized I slept

on the table again, with this unfinished loads work. I

looked for my pen and find it inserted on some page

of this small notebook. I opened it, “Never-ever Land”

written on first page. I realize I was writing stories last

night, just as I fell to sleep.

It was 7 AM. I knew I was already late for my

work at some office in the city. I didn’t bother to rush. I

toasted some bread and turned on the coffee machine.

Nobody’s going to prepare anything for me here. I live

in this apartment alone. My mother died when I was

ten, along with my little brother in her womb. My father

works overseas and sends me money from time to

time. I do have a pet cat named Dog. She has no fur

and just as lifeless as I am. Maybe that’s why I took her

in, so she’d be alone with me. I needed another live

being at least to remind me that I’m still sane, or am I?

I enter the bathroom and stare at my reflection

in this slightly broken mirror. The bags on my deep

dark eyes are noticeable. Maybe I should outgrow

this uncombed black hair of mine so I could sell it

somewhere someday. Have I become thinner? This is

bad news. I hope I grow some weight, a lot of it so that

I’d still have excess fat to burn if ever I starve. This

twenty-year-old body sure is pale and weak. I can’t

even do sports. God, I want to travel and leave this

place.

I then notice the inked thick and thin lines on

my wrist. That bar code wasn’t the only art on my

skin, but these cut scars, as well, some fading and a

few still fresh. Bar codes, seriously? What does the

government think we are? Products? Variables?

I tried erasing those irremovable lines. Oops.

Maybe I was trying so hard that the fresh cuts opened

again. Blood stains on the floor.

I wore a black vertical-stripe-patterned pencil

skirt, a black cardigan and a neck tie. I liked my coffee

black and bitter, too. I didn’t bother looking at the

news for all I know, I’d only hear reports on disasters,

corruption, racism, poverty, fear and that nuisance,

oh that pest! I see the face of this world’s dictator

everywhere.

I wore this anonymous-designed mask for

the last touch. We weren’t allowed to show intense

emotions. Nobody was allowed to go against the

government. Those below the ranks suffered in

inequality, injustice and poverty.

I opened the door, a clap of thunder sounded

just before it rained in this dark world. Abandoned

buildings, dead trees, unfinished roads and the only

body of water visible in the area are canals. I’m going

to have to walk a few distance before I could catch

a cab to take me to the city. The city sure did have

well-functioning facilities and infrastructures but it felt

no different. Everywhere was the same dark shade of

black.

I had to go back to my room to take my

umbrella. I then notice the small notebook. I hesitated

in taking it for it was unnecessary for work but what

triggered me was the thought that “I want to write more

fiction…

…I want to disappear once more.”

Welcome to reality.

BANWAG | 25

LITERARY

Hinumdumon Nako Nga Ikaw Kalimtam

Melit Jane Yu

Di kinahanglan ang lawom pa sa lawod nga mga pulong

Tungod kay balak kini, dili lang pinahunghong

Igo-igo nga ang akong tingog ug gibati madunggan

Kay ang akong katuyoan gayud diri kay ang masabtan

Akong nadumduman…

Kadtong bata pa ko, sa shop nag-uban mi ni mama

Apan nalipat ko ug siya nag-una, ug ako nabiyaan nga

nag-inusara

Mihilak ko ug ayo kay ako nawala na

Ug sa dihang miduol ang usa ka tindera miingon

Hulat-hulat lang, ug ayawg hawa sa imong gitindugan

Kay palangga man ka sa imong mama maong ikaw

pangitaon gayud ug balikan

Maong karun, ako intawon

Sukad sa pagbiya nimo, gahuwat-huwat ra gihapon

Wa gayud koy lihok-lihok, walay hawa-hawa

Kay lage diba ingon ka, ako imoang pinangga

Kadumdum pa ba ka?

Gihatag nako ang akong tanan-tanan

Gugma, panahon, effort, luha, singot, kinabuhi, maskin

lawas o kalag man

Gihatag nako tanan-tanan bisag ang akong kaugalingon

ako nang makalimtan

Ug dili mahabinlan

Pero langga, ngano man? Ngano man ikaw gihapon

gikulangan?

Siguro kay pangit ko, bogo ko, pobre ko, tanga ko

Ing-ana najud ko kadali pulihan?

Kadali ba nimo napul-an?

Langga, kung dili na ka,

Igna pod ko, pabal-a ko ba

Palihog diretsoa, isagpa ang kamatuoran saakua

Arun ako makamata na

Kaysa naman adlaw-adlaw, hinay-hinay

Di man ko manhid arun di makabantay

Nga ikaw dili na ganahan sa akua kanunay

Kahinumdom ko kung unsa ka init ang atong gugma

sauna

Mas init pa akong hilanat niadtong gabiuna

Niadtong gabiuna nga ako gapasing-ulan,

gahulat gawas sa inyong balay, di mahadlok

mabagyuhan

Karon imong pagtrato saakua mas bugnaw pa’s bahaw

Atung bibo nga mga storya, karun grabi ka mingaw lupig

pay gilangaw

Langga, nausab lage ka?

Kadumdum ko sauna di gayud ka makatulog kung magaway

ta

Karun pasagdan ra, katulgan pa

Siguro panahon na nga ako muundang

Apan timan-i kini, dili sa tanang higayon, ang muhawa

kay gusto mubiya

Ug dili tanan mubiya kay gusto mubalik

Kaysa naman ikaw way klaro, gaduha-duha

Ug ako dili sigurado kung ako pa ba ang imong gihigugma

Langga, arun di na ka magkalisod pa

Arun tanan pagbasol ug pagmahay mupadulong sa akua,

Ako nay muingon nga…

Langga, undang na ta.

Karun ako nang kalimtan

Akong kalimtan ang imong mga mata

Kon unsa ka-lawom, kon unsa ka mangitngit sila

Akong kalimtan ang mga bakak nako sa akong

kaugalingon

Matag “di na lage ko” apan mupadayon gihapon

Pati kadtong niadto tag simbahan

Ug akong mga kamot hugot kayo nimong gihawiran

Ikaw miampo, “Lord, kani na gayud akong pakaslan”

Ug akong gihuna-huna, di gayud tika buhian.

Ako na kaning kalimtan tanan.

Karun dili na ako muhigugma ug kompleto

Ginagmayng parte nalang sa akong kasing-kasing, dili na

buo

Kana, akong natun-an tungod nimo

Apan kabalo ba ka? Kung muabot man gani siya

Siya nga ihatag ang iyang tanan-tanan sa akua

Bisan pag siya mahutdan, ug iyang kaugalingon maulahi,

makalimtan

Kana nga panahuna, mas lisod na ko higugmaon

Apan kana rason para siya mupadayon, ug sa akua mas

mahigugma hinuon

Sama ra’s akong pagkabuang sa imo sauna

Ang naka-apan lang, dili nako siya buang-buangon,

Nakasabot ko sa iyang kasakit maong ako siyang

palanggaon

Kung maghulat siya, ako siyang balikan

Kung ihatag niya ang tanan-tanan

Ako kanang dawaton ug suklian

Ug ang pinakaimportante sa tanan nga kinahanglan nako

buhaton?

Nga bisag unsa kalisod, akuang kayanon

Kini akong buhaton sa daghang rason ug hinungdan

Mao ang hinumdumon nako nga ikaw kalimtan.

26

| BANWAG

Stranded

Jan Danise Yap

Here I stand, lonely and cold

Everything unfolds, a tragedy was told

It’s a story of you and me

inside a world of upside down

Your voice keeps me warm

I feel secure against all harm

In an island full of memories of you

I should’ve said “I love you too”

But time is running out

I fizzled in letting you grasp at my words

Now it’s all in my head

And you won’t be able to hear it

In our island I now stand alone

Shivering as the wind crawl into my skin

I have to leave our island that you abandoned

But I waited until the sun rises and watch myself stand in

broken pieces inside your heart

She is more than enough

Andrea Nicole R. Escarpe

She builds a house, lots of…Love! Oh, love!

The little she, was given to her from above

Filled with the caress of her when she sobbed

the little she ripens and flies like a dove

Before she open not the window of her soul

the lil’ she rests and sits on her, like a coil

Enwrapped in her reverie and enthrall

She, but proffer the lil’ her with a shawl

Her love is as solace as the wool

in a place called Antarctic, never will yowl

The little her sees a lil’ hole

When she asks but doesn’t given her whole

A mother knows best, was given a daughter like a beast

Depravity’s her intuition, but mother loves her, at least

Elegiac is the lil’ she, yet mother given her zest

Oh, love! The little her is blessed with a nest to rest.

Wishful Thinking

Lhirry Jhon Demin

Days are over as the clock stops ticking by

In the front of a window porch while you see me cry

I don’t know but when our eyes met butterflies escaped

I hooked up with the bait you set me with then gamble with aces and spade

And that moment was a picture perfect memory

That I could bring, I guess to eternity

As another day passed and faded away

With sweat all over your body I saw you running in the alley

Crisscrossing through your neck and white fitted shirt

Translucent carved chests were given birth

You stopped for a moment and gave me a gaze

A heart was caught in a fire, ablaze

My spirit flew like it was a paper plane thrown in the sky

It left me, oh such stupefy

I kept thinking if you are a blessing or a curse

A saviour or the one who stole my chichi purse

My mind was in bizarre and my heart raced

I fell in love with the man I have never embraced

Eccentricity exuded from a sixteen year old girl

Expecting a prince charming while wearing 14th century hair curl

The girl cried heavily when the boy didn’t love her back

Cause she was reading a stud’s quarterback comeback

The boy was a character in a fiction book

Oh! … The girl realized she was reading a storybook

She then came back to her senses

Closing the book while sitting on the benches

Looked up in the heaven and wishing

How can I get the boy worth fishing?

Beseech


I’ll paint the crooked pavement red,

Their insides mourns as it bled.

Prison’s bright orange jumpsuit I’ll wear,

Sweat swoons as the yellow sun flares.

The glares of eyes like pack of wolves,

Rotting them green with lament hooves.

Dyed their families with sad and blue,

Replenishes my dry soul where colors grew.

LITERARY

Behind indigo bars and gnashing teeth,

Where dusk violet clouds I crouch beneath.

My bleached body blasphemed at birth,

Beseeching the dead boy inside once unearthed.

BANWAG | 27

LITERARY

A Mortal Who Fell

into Darkness

Keven Opamin

A man got his consciousness,

filled with love and happiness

From the strikes of the heaven,

he stood with arms wide open.

The life he obtained began

and there was so much to come

Yet he chose to be gone

from this world where he came from.

The life he lived was wasted

The ride of his pen ended

But the gift of life lived on

in the crafts that he worked on.

My Felicia


I am here now, Felicia

I came as soon as I heard

You look beautiful;

But not as beautiful as when you lived and should

It is me, Felicia

The guy you grew up with

I remember those times,

When innocence was our favorite weed

Do you remember, Felicia

When we used to stay up so late?

We snuck in the school,

In the middle of the night in the football field

We were young then, Felicia

But we made a pinky promise

We created dreams,

While we stare at stars that never seem to crease

I left, Felicia

But we promised to keep in touch

We still held on to our promises,

But I grew tired in a rush

Tales of a

Wintered Hope

Alianah Jean Tumapon

In countless winters this heart you deprive,

On fabled lands I sought your loving gaze;

From pages of time this life must derive,

Rivers of hope that flows from its pathways.

I wrote the stars a thousand glad verses

That you may dance and carry me away;

From the ink of my pen to lasting spaces,

The margins of passion these words can play

But I alone realized all your lies,

All you did was ladder my hopes up high;

I thought you meant you’ll be mine “forever”

Now that you’re gone I knew you meant “never”

We grew up, Felicia

Time flew by so fast

You see, I got very busy,

My world just got too vast

You were left, Felicia

It wasn’t my fault

You held on to me,

But I forgot you as I never should

You were depressed, Felicia

And I had a life full of ease

You were melancholic,

And you stared at stars with a face that creased

What happened, Felicia

The life snapped off of you like a twig

You were found cold,

Melancholy engulfed you to a dark pit

You died, Felicia

I should have held on to the promises we used to create

You left a note,

It said ‘nobody cares until it’s too late’

I am here now, Felicia

I came as soon as I heard

I remembered you,

But it was late and on your grave I stood

28 | BANWAG

Coffee

Kassandra Buenafe

LITERARY

For a sad young girl like me

one cup of coffee is enough

to make me happy

No need for sugar or red velvet cakes

my heart is quite content

with the warmness it makes

The aroma kisses my senses

and I know that I’m loved

For the coffee may be a little bitter

but it assures me that I have it forever

And while I take a good sip

I have some words on my lip.

I’ll tell you how it goes…

One cup of you is my

happy daily dose.

Lost Sailor


I am a sailor lost at sea,

Yearning to set sail to the land of free.

Riding these roaring waves after waves,

Sea sickness seized, shall I be saved?

Wandered woefully through wicked weathers,

Thrown by the unknown into this vast ocean waters.

Scorching sun to cloudburst rain,

Through calm seas I remain my sane.

Waiting For You Was…

Melit Jane Yu

Like forgetting someone you love is gone,

And wanting to call them,

And then you remember,

And they’re gone again.

Like doing things I’m not supposed to do

Like burn my throat, and next my lungs

And maybe I’ll burn bridges, too

All these I do as I wait for you.

Like waiting for the day to pass

But the day is fast-passing when we do not wait for it.

Like time stretched longer, the ache is prolonged

With every second, more atrocious than the last.

Maybe I should no longer wait for you.

Maybe and should: A hint of uncertainty and a

premonition of pain

Uncertain of your return,

But hoping you will

But seeing the pain coming in case you don’t.

All I can hear is silence above me,

Whom am I to speak with? The sea?

Gone astray, a cast away,

A monster lurks, I should pray.

Winds of the past that cannot move on,

Staring at the blank infinite horizon.

I am half awake and half asleep,

Can you hear that song from the oceans deep?

On the rocks of the shipwreck she waits now and then,

Singing mellifluous melodies manipulating men.

This ephemeral limerence made my visions blur,

Days are gone for me to ever desire her.

She hummed a tune for my return,

But she was only ashes inside her urn.

Memories of her still float ashore,

As I would never adore another.

Reminiscence of temptation hammered in rocky shores,

Red tides and oil spills, she demands for more.

She was my siren, she lured me in,

She was my lust and she was my sin.

Tales of a foolish mortal and a mythical beauty,

Listen to me my siren, now I’m dead at sea.

May the waves wage war on where you belong,

For I know another lost sailor can hear your song.

BANWAG | 29

ENTERTAINMENT

30 | BANWAG

YOU

Yes, you.

Be an agent of PEACE.

Make a difference.

It starts with yourself.

32 | BANWAG

BANWAG | 33

Banwag AY 2016-2017 Vol. 7 No. 2

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