My Sem-Break Vacation

By Thea Angela S. Dela Paz, 5-Sincerita

Since my brother and I both got good grades in school, we were rewarded by our parents to spend our semestral vacation in Hong Kong.
We left last October 25 and stayed there until November 2. We had a week full of fun activities. We went to Disneyland and saw my favorite Disney Characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh and the Princesses like, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella and Jasmine. This is not my first time to visit this magical place but I every time I’m there, everything’s full of fun and excitement.
We also explored the place by visiting their famous tourist spots. The place was highly developed, there were a lot of high-rise buildings and the people seems to be always in a hurry to go to their destinations. There were a lot of shops to visit and it’s also yummy to eat at different Chinese restaurants.
Our family really bonded because, we had a lot of quality time together. I realized that I am so lucky to have experienced this kind of adventure in life. Each day, I learned to appreciate the little things that are happening in my life. I have a lot to be thankful for, that’s why, and I would want to be the best that I can be, that is, a good person and a loving daughter of God.

Unedited entry of Ms. Thadhani to the 29th Metro Manila Young Writers Conference and Contests - Climate Change: is it unstoppable?

By Aishwarya Lei F. Thadhani, 6-Generosita’

Everyone is talking about “climate change” but what is climate change actually? Climate change is already happening and is one of the greatest threats the planet is facing; many are taking notice of this problem, and they are trying to stop it. The question is, is it unstoppable?
Over 100 years ago, people worldwide began burning coal and oil for homes, factories, and transportation. Burning these fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other green house gases into the atmosphere. These added green house gases have caused the earth to warm more quickly than it has in the past. How much warming has happened? Scientist from around the world tells us that during the past 100 years, the world’s surface air temperature increased. This may not sound like very much change, but even one degree can affect the Earth. Below are some possible solutions we can do as a student.
Possible solutions to this can be: stop indiscriminate throwing of garbages anywhere, decrease the use of vehicles one by one instead we could learn to use public transportation. We could join organizations to help in this problem. We could hold seminars and go into action against this problem.
If we don’t take action quickly imagine what would happen to the Earth’s condition in a few hundred years, what would happen to humans, animals and all living things? We better take care of the earth because a planet like this doesn’t come around everyday. Our earth, our home, comes only once.

A Tour Around SM City Marikina

By Rebecca Isabel F. Salinas, I-Semplicita

September 5, 2008 was really a memorable day for mall lovers in Marikina City. Once again, a mall was built in our dear city and has now been opened for everyone. Welcome to SM City Marikina!
I myself have gone to SM City Marikina, and I can say that this quaint place really pays off. As you step inside, you can really feel the coolness of the place as well as the modern ambiance in it. Shops are filled with very colorful designs and most especially, there are fastfood chains and restaurants filled with lots and lots of people!
My favorite section is the SM Cyberzone Plaza. It is a huge place filled with shops of techie stuff and gadgets! Looking around it makes me crave for more gadgets, especially the cellphones which are really great! Wish I could buy what I wanted but sorry for me, zero balance in my pocket.
My tour around SM City Marikina was indeed cool and enjoyable. It is a very nice place to relax and spend some time with your family and friends. Visit SM City Marikina and surely, you’ll have a great time!

Photos taken from: http://aleafofgrass.wordpress.com/2008/09/14/sm-city-marikina/

HSM 3: Senior Year

By Ma. Francesca C. Herrera, III- Temperanza’

“High School Musical” went on big screen last October 24, 2008. This movie will is the last part of the highly successful series. It will be our last time to hear Vanessa Hudgens, Zac Efron and the whole cast sing their trademark HSM songs that many teens and children love.
The movie starts with the final basketball match between the West High Knights and the East High Wildcats where Troy Bolton is the team captain. Wildcats won the game and were hailed as champions.
Ms. Darbus, the drama club teacher, was preparing a play for the spring musical. She assigned her class to be its main cast. Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan and Taylor together with other friends decided on what to do with the play and even rehearsed for it.
But then Gabriella received her scholarship notice from Stanford University. This is when she felt the need to decide on her future. So, she decides to leave the play and go to Stanford to achieve what she wants.
Troy gets upset and cannot focus on the rehearsal anymore because of Gabriella’s absence. He decides to go to Stanford and visit Gabriella at the day of the spring musical. Troy sent a text message saying he will be late at the musical.
At the middle of the musical while Sharpay is singing, Troy arrives and sings with Gabriella. During the Graduation Ceremony, Troy delivers a speech for the Wildcats and there, they take their final bow.
There are many new songs in HSM 3 like Now or Never, Right Here, Right Now, I Want It All, Can I Have This Dance, A Night to Remember, Just Wanna Be with You, The Boys Are Back, Walk Away, Scream, Can I Have This Dance – Reprise, Last Chance – Ballad, I Want It All – Reprise, Just Wanna Be with You – Reprise, A Night to Remember – Reprise, We're All in This Together - Graduation Mix, High School Musical and Just Getting Started.
HSM 3 caps the series in a very fun way and I’m sure you’ll feel the same!

Twilight : A Review

By Kathleen Mae G. Carungay, I - Lealta

Bored at your daily routine? Well, this is the time for you to read the bestselling book of Stephenie Meyer, entitled “Twilight.” It is the first book of the bestselling Twilight Saga composed of: Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn.
Mostly read by teenagers because of its adventure and romance elements, Twilight is a unique story about a vampire and a human.
Edward Cullen, the vampire, studies at the school where Isabella Swan, the mortal, is also attending since she moved to her dad’s place called Forks.
Isabella, also known as Bella, is a very good food for the Cullen family, Edward’s family of vampires. But the family has a different diet; they drink beastly blood and not human blood.
As the days passed by, Edward learns to restrain his craving to bite Bella and eventually falls in love with her. As the story goes by, Bella will know everything about Edward and his love for her will go deeper than the first.
The first book ended during their school’s prom. Bella expressed her desire to become a vampire, like her sweetheart which Edward refused. Will Bella be a vampire? Let’s find out soon.
Did you know that a Filipino vampire was mentioned in the book? There is! Meyer included the story of Danag, the Filipino vampire in the book.

BIDA Tayo!

By Patricia Bianca M. Andres, IV-Perseveranza’

“Isa ka bang BIDA?” This is the question that the Filipino youth of today are called to answer throughout the BIDA: Be The Change, Youth Empowerment Camp organized by the Catholic Association of the Philippines (CEAP) and the Manila Archdiocesan Parochial Schools Associations (MAPSA). The event was held last November 14 and 15 at La Salle Greenhills.
Roughly 1,500 high school and college student-participants, catechists, Sangguniang Kabataan leaders, parish youth ministry members and teachers from the different regions of the country were invited to accept the challenge to be champions in the game of life, to be a “bida sa pelikula ng ating buhay.”
However, many had given up on this path. As Fr. Elu had said, “To be a champion means having the courage to stand on one’s two feet, having the guts to stand for something different which is out of the ordinary or the mainstream and having the strength to endure the adversities of life. Take the road less traveled and dare to be one in a thousand.”
The challenges that the youth has to face are not only those that they should confront alone but the struggles that they have to face all together; the problems of the nation. It is true that we are aware of the current national situation and in many ways, we are affected by it. However, being indifferent does not give any help. Thus, we are called to make a move, speak up and express our views.
His Eminence Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales encourages us to dream with our eyes open and take the steps in order to make our goals happen. We cannot transform the situation in the blink of an eye but we can definitely start the change that we want to see. If we work together and use our abilities we can be the spark. As Gang Badoy of RockEd has said, “Hindi ako naniniwalang ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan dahil tayo ang bayan.”
STOP! Being part of the problem. START! Being part of the solution. GO! BIDA Hero! BIDA, Change!

Picture taken from http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=1180&msgid=52033&offset=0

Ms. Analyn Cayat

By Jason L. Bandojo, IV-Perseveranza’ and Matthew Gerald G. Mañago, I- Semplicita’

Ms. Analyn Cayat is the newest MDPS teacher. She is currently handling Technology and Livelihood Education I, II, IV and Arts I-IV. She took up Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education at Benguet State University and graduated in 1999.
Even though TLE and Arts are both minor subjects, there are some students who find difficulty in it. Ms. Cayat believes that there is one reason behind it.
“Students are taking their studies for granted. They should ask help from their teacher especially if they don’t understand something on a particular topic.”
Now that she is already a certified MDPS teacher, the only thing that comes to her mind when asked on her impression about MDPSians is that, “They are very honest, respectful and accommodating.” She quipped.

Christmas Wishes…

They say that Christmas is for the children.
For this season, let’s listen to our schoolmates’ heart’s desire for this Christmas and we wish that it will be granted by Santa.
“I want to have more Barbies.” – Charmione Mikaela Ani, Prep-Gioia
“ I want to see Santa Claus and to ride an airplane.” – Angelus Dumaquita, Kinder Gentillezza
“ I want to receive a jackstones, robot and matchbox cars.” – Kent Brusola, Kinder Amore’
“I wish that I will be happy this Christmas.” – Magie Cruz, 1-Umilta’
“ I wish to have a computer.” – Lira Feriz Juliana Palao, 1-Umilta’
“ I wish for my dad to come home this Christmas.” – Kaira Badua, 2-Sapienza’
“I wish for many gifts.” – Francesca Loise Zapunta, 2-Sapienza’
“ I wish to have a PSP” – Lance Oliver Lim, 3- Sapienza’
“I wish that my family would be happy this season.” – Juliette Santos, 3- Carita
“That my family would be in tact this Christmas”… Ma. Isabella Tan, 4-Prudenza’
“ I wish for new video game… Ray Henri Sison, 4-Prudenza’
“ I wish that my family is complete, - Adrian Paul Fajardo, 5-Sincereta’
“ I wish I will receive many gifts.”- Lean Andrew Sarmiento, 5- Sincereta’
“ I wish for a high grades.” – Hector William Yuson, 5-Fedelta’
“I wish for world peace” - Colleen Herrera, 6-Sobrieta’
“I would like to have a Nintendo DS.” - Michelle Lee, 6-Generosita’

32nd Regional Secondary Schools Press Conference

By Rebecca Isabel F. Salinas, I-Semplicita

Being a Freshman student, I don’t gave any idea what the Regional Press Conference in High School does. I started to think its hard, but I guess I will be able to get over it.
Last November 25, 2008, we went to the Regional Press Conference in Notre Dame of Greater Manila in Grace Park, Caloocan City. I was with ate Po Teresa Santiago and ate Julianne Love de Jesus. We were accompanied by our moderator, Mrs. Dianne Tagle.
Climate Change: A Call for Responsible Journalism was the contest’s theme. It tells that journalists like us have a special role in protecting Mother Earth. Through writing, we can encourage people on how to start thinking about this issue.
The Regional Press Conference’s Keynote Speaker was Cheryl Cosim, a reporter from ABS-CBN. She encourages us to pursue writing so that the society will be aware of the current environmental issue.
After the short program, the schedules of the contest proper was started, I was with the last contest time; on Editorial Writing.
When my time came, I listened to the speaker and wrote my piece afterwards; it sounded easy, but its not.
A tiring day ended, and we all went back to school full of hope.

New Teacher - Ms. Leonie Marquez

Ms. Leonie Marquez is the new Chemistry teacher of the Juniors.
She graduated from Far Eastern University (FEU) with a degree in BS Chemistry in 1980. She earned Education units at De La Salle University and a Masters Degree in Educational Management at Trinity College.
At first, she took up BS Nursing but then shifted to BS Chemistry because aside from having preference on Chemistry as a subject, most of her earned units were to be credited in the BS Chemistry program.
Being a teacher was a twist of fate that she did not expect. She decided to be a teacher because she felt that it was a better option than to work in an industrial company like her friends. At that time, she was helping her parents sustain her younger brother’s college studies.
Ms. Marquez worked at Xavier School initially as a Laboratory Assistant in 1977. At that time, she was in college as a working student. She started teaching in 1980. In her 24 years of service in the said Jesuit-Chinese school, she became the Department Head for science and Team Leader.
In 2004, Ms. Marquez was accepted in the Visiting International Faculty (VIF) program as an exchange teacher and decided to resign from Xavier.
“It was an opportunity for me that I think I should not miss”, she said. She handled Physical Science of the 8th grade at Farmwell Station Middle School in Northern Virginia, United States. Her stint ended in June 2007.
She chose to work at MDPS after one year’s rest because she was ready to teach again. She applied in three schools here in Marikina and MDPS was one of them.
In her short time here, she said that she is really enjoying her stay. Ms. Leonie also loves her students that working here at MDPS with her colleagues make her happy.
What advice can she give to the MDPSians? “The students should take the chance given to them seriously. Their parents sacrifice to give them a good education, to see them succeed in the future. So in return, MDPSians have to study hard, earn good grades and become well-rounded and God fearing individuals.” By Ma. Francesca C. Herrera, III Temperanza

New Teacher - Ms. ELIZA ARCALA

Another school year has passed and many changes have occurred in MDPS - new facilities, students and teachers. The 28-year old Ms. Eliza Arcala is one of the new teachers in MDPS.
She is handling the English III and IV and the HS Speech classes. She took up BS Education Major in English at the University of Cebu in Mandaue City. “I love English and I have no problem with it,” Ms.Arcala stated.
English is one of the subjects where students have difficulty aside from Math and Science. But Ms. Arcala believes that there is only one reason behind it.
“For me, students find difficulty in my subject because they do not read a lot. Even if they do, some cannot understand what they are reading. It is more on comprehension. It is very important to understand because from that, a student becomes more equipped,” she explained.
Now that she is already a certified MDPS teacher, there is one thing that she can say about the MDPSians, “They are very inquisitive and eager for knowledge,” she quipped. By Jason L. Bandojo, IV- Perseveranza’

New Teacher - MRS. LEMAR JOY BELLOSILLO

Mrs. Lemar Joy Bellosillo is the current High School Guidance Counselor. She also handles the Psychology class of the junior students.
She was born on November 18, 1979 and she graduated from Miriam College with a degree in BS Psychology. Nowadays, she is taking up her masters degree in Teaching in the Early Grades in University of the Philippines Diliman.
Do you know that she also came from a school that is handled by a congregation or a community of sisters, like our school? That’s why she felt at ease here in MDPS. According to her, “its warm environment and all the wonderful people make MDPS an ideal workplace.”
She still prefers to teach young kids but as of now, she is on part-time status as the HS Guidance Counselor and 3rd year Psychology elective teacher. For her, it’s a different experience but equally challenging and exciting.
Despite her loaded schedule, she still finds time to read, watch movies and spend time with her family and friends and do just about anything. She likes books although she barely has time to read as much as she wants to. Traveling, writing, arts and crafts catch her attention. The art of Chinese Calligraphy also interests her. Staying in front of the computer also removes her boredom.
“Make every moment count” and “Seize the day, live life to the fullest” are her mottos in life.
What does she expect from the students in MDPS? Well, it’s just simple. She expects them to give their best in everything they do and to have an open mind in learning the things shared with them by the school administrators and teachers.
A happy and energetic person she is, even though with a hectic schedule, Mrs. Bellosillo sure is making every moment count and living her life to the fullest! By Sara Jamel S. Bangayan, III-Fortezza’

New Teacher - Sr. Gemma Cawilan, ASP

Maybe Sr. Gemma Cawilan, ASP isn’t that familiar to some MDPSians since she did not teach in the past school years. But for this year, she was tasked to teach Christian Living Education III.
Sr. Gemma originally assigned to the religious formation of the sister candidates or aspirants to become Angelic Sisters, especially in the Pre-Novitiate and Novitiate stage. She has been assigned to this task for the past two years. She is also a member of the MDPS Board of Trustees.
It is not that she has no experience as a student mentor. In 1992, she taught CLE for grade 3 students in MDPS. In 1993, she handled the CLE class of grade 4, 5 and 6 at Sacred Heart School in Montalban.
Sr. Gemma graduated in Marist Asia Pacific Center (MAPAC) with a course on Religious Studies. She also took up AB Philosophy in Christ the King Seminary in Quezon City and MA Theological Studies in Maryhill School of Theology (MST) in New Manila. As of now, she studies MA Philosophy in the University of Santo Tomas in Manila.
“I never dreamed to be a teacher in a classroom,” she recalls, “But when I became a Sister, I learned to appreciate the value of teaching.”
Sr. Gemma said that she did not really thought of becoming a nun. But after graduating high school, she admired the vocation and realized that she was open to the possibility of becoming one.
After undergoing religious formation, her desire for mission became clear – like that of St. Paul. She became attracted to the charism and mission of the Angelic Sisters of St. Paul that she decided to profess her vows.
Simplicity and excellence – that is what she admires among MDPSians. She sees that they are kind, humble and malalambing as her students.
She enjoys being here in MDPS that she advises the students to have courage and become the best that they can be. “Be open and determined. Excel. Trust in yourselves and trust God since He’ll do the rest.” By Sara Jamel S. Bangayan, III-Fortezza’ and Ma. Francesca C. Herrera, III-Temperanza’

New Teacher - Ms. Kristine Ador

Ms. Kristine Amparo Ador is the new Araling Panlipunan I, II and III teacher. She was born on July 9, 1982 in Manila.
Ms. Ador graduated from City College of Manila in Sta. Cruz, Manila taking up Bachelor of Education Major in Social Studies; Minor in Home Economics. Singing is her hobby because it makes her cheerful.
She decided to join the MDPS community to enhance her spiritual life. She finds the community as respectful, accommodating and approachable.
“Do what makes you happy” is her motto in life. By Jerel Nikko E. Goto, II-Giustizia and Geof Andrei D. Yturzaeta, II-Nobilta

New Teacher - Mrs. Rose Manipor

"Know your passion!" uttered the newest member of the MDPS faculty, Mrs. Mary Rose Manipor, Technology and Living Economics (TLE) teacher.
Mrs. Manipor took up BS Food Technology at Marikina Institute of Science and Technology and BS Industrial Education, major in Home Economics at Technological Institute of the Philippines. She initially wanted to become a nurse but ended in a different field instead.
Mrs. Manipor has been in the food profession for five years already. She became a food and beverage training service attendant in Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for one and a half years and a kitchen supervisor at a European restaurant in Ortigas.
She accepted the teaching offer at MDPS because Mrs. Fely Ramos, her mentor and former TLE III teacher, wanted her to take over the job. Plus, her interest lies in teaching.
Presently living with her two children and husband, Mrs. Manipor manages her time between family and career by prioritizing the needs of her family. During her free time, she takes care of her children, manages a canteen business and creates new recipes for her to submit to a food company.
"It was a nice experience dealing with MDPS students because they really enjoyed the activities and they always looked forward to it," she said. When asked on her advice to students who are interested in food management, she said "Decide on the career you truly want. If you have the passion, then pursue it." By Julliane Love F. De Jesus, IV-Misericordia

New Staff - Mrs. Milagros Clamana Guanio, RN

Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
School Graduated: Arellano University, Legarda, Manila
Why did you decide to work in MDPS?
“MDPS is just near from our residence.”
What can you say about the MDPSians?
“Generally speaking, MDPSians are disciplined, enthusiastic and studious.”
Which among your responsibility as a nurse you find challenging?
“ As a school nurse, the most challenging part is when a certain patient needs to be referred to a hospital, that no single minute should be wasted, quick enough to ask help and the transportation while monitoring the status of the patient at the same time.”
What are the common ailments of MDPS students you have observed so far?
“ Common ailments are headache and hyperacidity, this is because of not eating the most important meal of the day which is breakfast.”Interviewer: Thea Angela Dela Paz, Viatrice Maxine Abistado andRegine Nacario, 5-Sincereta’

New Teacher - Anna Celina C. Duque

Kinder Class Moderator
Course: Bachelor in Elementary Education Major in Early Childhood Education
School Graduated: University of Santo Tomas
How do you find MDPSians?:
MDPSians are smart. They can easily find their way out of their difficulties.
Why did you choose to teach in MDPS?
I want to give back what MDPS has taught me.
As an alumna, what can you say about MDPS now?
The facilities are definitely better than what we had four years ago. ^_^ Aside from that, it’s still the same MDPS that I went to. It’s just like coming back home.

New Teacher - Mrs. Ma. Cristeta R. Tuazon

Course: A.B. Mass Communication
School Graduated: Trinity College of Asia
Why did you decide to work in MDPS?
“ It’s God’s will for me to work here and I believe in the mission and vision of the school.”
What can you say about the MDPSians?
“ MDPSian students are nice and friendly kids.”
Interviewer: Ma. Agenica De Castro and Alyssa Joy Dedal,5-Sincereta’

New Teacher - Mr. Joel Jacobo

Course: A.B. Philosophy Minor in English and Political Science
School Graduated: St. Camillus College Seminary, Marikina Heights, Marikina City
Why did you decide to work in MDPS?
“ I decided to teach here because I consider MDPS as my family and second home.”
What can you say about the MDPSian pupils?
“ Well… they are kind, generous, and easy to be with and they really try to live the MDPSian Christian journey.
What about the entire community?
“I like it so much because of the kind-hearted sisters, teachers & staff, the respectful and smiling students and the welcoming MDPS Family.
Interviewer: Iwi Yusingco,5-Fedelta’ and Michelle Zuñiga. 5-Sincereta’

Welcome Back!

By Patricia Bianca M. Andres, IV- Perseveranza’

Sr. Rorivic Israel, ASP
After two years of absence, Sr. Rorivic is back. She returned to the Philippines last June 3 from Pennsylvania, United States where she was assigned to help at a local parish. Currently, Sr. Rorivic is teaching Music IV and English I and II.

Ms. Anna Cristina Gatmaytan
Five years after leaving MDPS and working in two schools, Ms. Anna Cristina Gatmaytan is back. Having spent eight years of service in MDPS, Ms. Gatmaytan returned, claiming that MDPS has been a second family to her.