The MARIAN

21/08/2024

The Senator, The Convict and The Martyr

“I have asked myself many times: Is the Filipino worth suffering, or even dying for?” – Ninoy Aquino

With bright golden blossoms, it is no wonder why the sunflowers face the direction of the rising sun. The comforting warmth that comes from the big light source serves as a blanket of comfort—of hope. It is the only element it needs that sometimes disappears.

Bound by law in the Republic Act 9256 and included in Proclamation No. 368 s. 2023, we celebrate this year’s Ninoy Aquino Day, 41 years after his death, on a Wednesday—a day of the week associated with wisdom, healing, and death.

The Seed
After Martial Law was declared, he was imprisoned for seven years. Suffering a heart attack within his cell, he sought medical attention in the United States with permission from the administration, where he also lived in self-exile before ultimately being assassinated upon his return to our country.

The Fields
Even when under confinement or in self-exile, his mind was always on the country’s political state. He fought for the Filipinos to have hope - the kind of hope that is neither a prize nor a gift, but a realization. He who threw caution to the wind when warned time and time again of his bold actions, decided that the Filipinos were indeed, worth fighting for.

Wilting
In every calendar, on the 21st of August, we are reminded of the day when Ninoy Aquino, an exiled senator, stood against the most powerful man in the country and was involved in a colossal change of tides that cut his life short but will forever be ingrained in the records of Filipino history. Hopefully, in his last moments he was able to gaze at the sun as we do now, able to bask in its warmth and be reminded of what he fought for.

—
Art by Shaye Louise Olivas
Pubmat by Josel Noej Sopongco

21/08/2024

CALL FOR APPLICANTS | Marians! Are you ready to make your mark on campus?

In a world where truth is more vital than ever, let your voices be the instrument to make truth matter. And let your service speak for truth that matters.

The MARIAN is once again calling on all passionate writers, artists, layout and graphic designers, broadcasters, and visual storytellers to join our TeaM this academic year!

Join the most awesome family in the campus as we navigate through campus journalism together—where your creativity meets purpose.

Catch us on this year's Clubs' Fair at Lorenzo Ruiz Park! We can't wait to have you in living where the truth is.

See you there!

—

21/08/2024

NEWS | SMU-BIBAK graces Sapientia A Deo Walk thru Dinnuya dance

Clad in their native attires, Saint Mary's University-Benguet, Ifugao, Bontok, Apayao, Kalinga (SMU-BIBAK) group gathers new Marians in a community dance during the welcome rites of Sapientia A Deo walk, held in front of the Four Pillars, August 19.

In an interview with The MARIAN, SMU-BIBAK President Jinky Dulawan said that their dance performance is called Dinnuya, which means community dance and was often performed by the Cordilleran people, particularly the Ifugaos during community celebrations.

"We believe that showcasing [these] isn't only for show but [it] proudly shows the unique identity and culture we have. Showcasing these also contributes awareness and knowledge about our culture and traditions," Dulawan said.

"Its purpose is to gather the community and be one in showcasing unity or to show that they've united or that they're one community celebrating for the same purpose," she added.

Meanwhile, in a separate interview with The MARIAN, Wilmar Sevilla, a freshman BS Psychology student, shared his experience in the event.

"Coming from an institution with a smaller sea of people, I'd say that my first week would be best described as 'humbling' - seeing all the talents and the way other students present themselves is exhilarating," he explained.

“Two words to describe the welcoming ceremony: warm and exquisite,” Sevilla described.

The Sapientia A Deo Walk is a traditional welcome rite for freshmen, transferees and new Marian employees conducted every after the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit, followed by walking through the wisdom arc and offering of white roses to the statue of Mother Mary in hopes of another fruitful academic year.

The university also commenced its Clubs' Fair in the same day where 14 officially-recognized university clubs and organizations officially opened their booths to encourage aspiring students to join and register.

—
Report by Johanna Delos Santos
Photos by Jenzon Baquiran

20/08/2024

NEWS | SMU registers 20 Psychometricians

20 new Marian Psychometricians passed the recent Board Licensure Examination for Psychologists and Psychometricians (BLEPP) conducted last August 11-12.

Saint Mary's University obtained an overall passing rate of 76.92%, according to the data released by the Professional Regulation Commission today, August 20.

The following are the new registered Psychometricians:

1. Tyron John Abraham, RPm
2. Maylyn Grace Abella, RPm
3. Xienah May Bambico, RPm
4. Minly Bongac, RPm
5. Leighzanne Keith Canonizado, RPm
6. Meca Jade Corpuz, RPm
7. Rockenson Dagupon, RPm
8. Edsalien De Vera, RPm
9. Reymar Donato, RPm
10. Rexur Mar Dulinayan, RPm
11. Robeliza Gullunan, RPm
12. Ellen G*e Kimayong, RPm
13. Jasmine Nicole Layugan, RPm
14. Jossa Camila Nacin, RPm
15. Vera Fate Nidoy, RPm
16. Billie Oropieza, RPm
17. Kristel Slai Patnaan, RPm
18. Lorraine Tayaban, RPm
19. Stefanie Mae Tifang, RPm
20. Sarah May Cantor, RPm

The national passing rate for the said board exam is 69.78% or 7,478 out of 10,717 examinees.

—
Report by Zinah Belle Manzano

20/08/2024

“What if I fall?”
“Oh, but Ferny, what if you fly?”

In a world where the lines between reality and illusion blur, it takes courage to speak truth and stand tall. With every inked thought, and every story told, we carve our path through this winding maze of uncertainty and discovery. There’s no need to feel lost—your voice can light the way through the unknown.

Ready to dive down the rabbit hole and uncover your potential? For curious minds and creative souls alike, join the most awesome The MARIAN family, and let’s turn the pages of a free press together.

Visit our booth at the Clubs Fair at Lorenzo Ruiz Park and follow the application process:

1. Scan the QR Code for the registration

2. Fill out the necessary details in the registration form and submit the required documents

3. Attend and participate in the Entrance-seminar workshop on August 31

4. Attend and participate in the interview

See you there, Marians!

—

18/08/2024

Heads up, Marians! Long weekend ahead!

Saint Mary’s University Vice President for Administration declared suspension of classes on August 23 (Friday) and August 26 (Monday) in observance of Ninoy Aquino Day and National Heroes Day, respectively.

The announcement aligns with the recent declaration by the Office of the President through Malacanang Proclamation 665 to move this year’s Ninoy Aquino Day from August 21 to August 23.

Offices will also be closed during these holidays.

—

17/08/2024

15/08/2024

NEWS | SMU yields 24 Medical Technologists

Saint Mary's University (SMU) registers 24 Medical Technologists after passing the Medical Technologists Examinations (MTLE) conducted last August 6-7.

According to the data released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on August 13, SMU obtained an overall passing rate of 77.42% while 83.33% for first-time takers.

The following are the new Marian registered Medical Technologists:

1. BERNARD PAUL VICENTE AQUINO, RMT
2. LYNTHER MYLE ACOSTA ARIZO, RMT
3. JHAYSREAL ANN ANCHETA BUEZA, RMT
4. MICHELLE DAGUASI CAGURANGAN, RMT
5. CRISTINE ULEP DELA CRU, RMT
6. CHELSEA JERUSHA PALONGPONG DUMATOG, RMT
7. CONSTANTE OCTAVIO FERNANDEZ II, RMT
8. CRISTINA MONTEMAYOR FERNANDO, RMT
9. ANDREA MAY ALIANO FRANCISCO, RMT
10. MILLENE INWAY GALATE, RMT
11. MICHELLE MAE ANCHETA JULIANA, RMT
12. ALYSSA POLLAH YARCIA LACCAY, RMT
13. JOYCE DULNUAN LANGBAYAN, RMT
14. ELLEN JAY BARTOLOME MANUEL, RMT
15. JESSA MAE NATIVIDAD MENDOZA, RMT
16. KREVINSON DAYAO PASKING, RMT
17. ANGELICA FAITH SABADO PIMENTEL, RMT
18. CLAUDETTE ALBERTO PINKIHAN, RMT
19. ABDUL KARIB PREPOSE REGARO, RMT
20. MARIECONNE POYATOS SAGARIO, RMT
21. RUBY LOUZELLE JACOB SORIANO, RMT
22. MARC ANGELO CALUYA TOMAS, RMT
23. JACKLYN ALLERA VALENZONA, RMT
24. FARAH MAE DOMINGO, RMT

A total of 3,872 out of 5,574 or 69.47% is the national passing rate for the said board exam.

—

Report by Zinah Belle Manzano

14/08/2024

Take the path towards home.

On August 19, a path will reveal itself on the wisdom arc of the four pillars. There, we will witness the new members of our ever-growing Marian community as they take their steps in the traditional welcome rite of Sapientia A Deo Walk.

May we all reach home as footsteps walk on a path of white roses and towards the academic life where each sprint and fall will embark on a journey of mission and excellence fueled by determination and endless dreams.

See you, Marians!

—
Art by Margo Delos Reyes
Pubmat by Princes Diana Maniquis

13/08/2024

NEWS | We are always willing to take that trade-off—Mosqueda on student welfare development

New student-leaders vow to accept challenges of new academic year as they took their oaths during Saint Mary’s University (SMU) first flag-raising ceremony, held in front of the Four Pillars, August 12.

The event highlighted the transfer of key of responsibilities to Nathaniel Mosqueda, the new Student Central Council (SCC) President, where he expressed the council's support in student welfare development despite the challenges they may face as student leaders in his acceptance speech.

“When we set ourselves to be student leaders, we must be ready to serve genuinely, we must be willing to be criticized, to be uncomfortable,” he shared.

“There are some proposals that may be a shot in the dark, [but] as your student central council, [we] will always be willing to take that trade-off of trying to lobby such initiatives and assess the things that we can do more for the continuous student welfare development,” he added.

The ceremony also included the oath-taking of SCC officers, Local School Council (LSC) officers, and SMU-Faculty, Employees and Retirees Association officers.

—
Report by Jihan Ramos
Photos by Luis Shih

12/08/2024

The lazy days of summer are now over. Marians, are you ready to start afresh?

A new academic year has finally opened up to your doors! Here is a list of back-to-school reminders to take into account regarding the university’s prescribed dress code provided by the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Services.

Note: School ID with SMU ID lace must always be worn within the campus. Previously approved organizational ID laces may only be used on Fridays. A “NO ID, NO ENTRY” policy shall be strictly enforced for the safety of all.

Make the most out of this academic year, Marians!

—
Art by Margo Delos Reyes
Pubmat by Josel Noej Sopongco

12/08/2024

NEWS | Marians participate in CHSF Brigade

In preparation for the start of academic year 2024-2025, the Office of the Vice President for Administration initiated a Brigada Eskwela, August 10.

Students and leaders from the different schools, employees, and other volunteers joined in the university-wide bridgada and cleaned their respective areas.

In an interview with The MARIAN, Angeles Jesielyn Luwang, an incoming first-year BS Psychology student, said she volunteered to join this year’s Brigada Eskwela.

“Para maging maganda naman po yung feeling na nag-aaral ka eh malinis po paligid mo. Tapos chance na rin po na makihalubilo sa kapwa na pareho ang course po,” she shared.

Moreover, in a separate interview with The MARIAN, a second-year BS Secondary Education major in English student, Keziah Marie Alegre emphasized the importance of conducting this kind of institutionalized activity.

“Ang kahalagahan ng brigada eskwela ay ‘yung unity ng bawat isa na makapaglinis, makapag-ayos, at makapaghanda para sa nalalapit na eskuwela ng mga mag-aaral,” Alegre said.

The Brigada was conducted to ensure a Clean, Healthy, Safe, and Friendly (CHSF) learning environment for the presumption of classes on August 12.

—
Report by Athena Coreen Tuzon
Photos by Alvin Vicente and Lorraine Bunagan

11/08/2024

Dearest dreamer,

I am writing to tell you that there are spaces here for your growth. The visions are endless for your ambitions. Your growing skills are surely welcome here.

There will be confusion, but there will also be specks of light that will guide your way through. You don’t have to have everything figured out by now, tiny steps can create meaningful changes in the process.

Be less afraid, friendships can be created in every nook and cranny of this campus.

Dearest dreamer, I know that you are capable of new things outside of your comfort box. Curious colors will paint you boundless opportunities, in many ways you didn’t imagine.

So for a while now, make yourself at home.

Sincerely,
Ferny and the wonderful The MARIAN family

Welcome home, Marian! You are much awaited here!

—
Art by Margo Delos Reyes
Pubmat by Princess Diana Maniquis

09/08/2024

Sa likod ng mayabong at mayamang pamana ng lupain, nananatili ang mga katutubo bitbit ang kanilang mga dahilan—hindi upang maiba at malayo sa atin kundi upang mapangalagaan at protektakhan ang kanilang kasaysayan. Karugtong ng natatanging kulay ng kanilang mga disenyo at kultura ay ang katangi-tangi nilang paraan upang mas mapalapit sa kung sino sila.

Kaya naman ngayong taon, sa ating pagdiriwang ng Pandaigdigang Araw ng mga Katutubo sa temang, "Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact," nawa'y tayo ang maging dahilan upang maunawaan nang higit ng mga indibidwal ang kanilang pinanggagalingan. At mabigkis natin ang kolektibong lakas para mapabilang sa kanilang hanay tungong pakikibaka para sa kanilang lupain, pagkakakilanlan, at mga karapatan.

Maligayang araw ng mga katutubo sa buong mundo!

—
Photo from Flickr | Rick Saint John
Pubmat by Josel Noej Sopongco

07/08/2024

ICYMI | Marians dominate Bb. Bayombong stage

After Marian-alumna Athena Lodevico secured last year's crown, Marians once again took pride in this year’s Binibining Bayombong pageant as top five finalists during the Bayombong town fiesta held at LGU-DepEd Gymnasium, Aug 3.

Clarita Esperanza Dychitan, a recent nursing alumna of the School of Health and Natural Sciences and a representative of Purple Aesthetic Skin Clinic and Blended PH shone the brightest and brought home the crown.

Dychitan won the crowd and judge's heart with her insightful answer during the question and answer segment where she emphasized the importance of quality healthcare, especially in rural areas, based on her experiences as a nursing graduate.

“I would like to raise this concern because if we allow these individuals to access quality healthcare, then they won’t think twice, and think that [they have] their own access, and then they would understand and [it will] make them realize that it is their privilege and they will also be given a quality life,” she answered.

Trailing behind her is Satine Pareja, an alumna of SMU Senior High School (SMU-SHS) representing Sta. Rosa who owned the stage with grace and was hailed as the first runner-up.

Meanwhile, Mikeisha Logan, the very own candidate of Saint Mary’s University, showcased her Marian wit and beauty as she was hailed second runner-up.

More so, another SMU-SHS alumna, Jhonna Gail Escuardo who represented San Nicolas, landed as the third runner-up followed by Frances Gwen Barrozo, a 3rd-year architecture student and Buenavista representative, who was hailed as the fourth runner-up.

Furthermore, Management Accounting alumna and Chik Hen Joe Grill and Restaurant representative Qira Saludarez, as well as 2nd-year civil engineering student and La Torre South representative Ashanti Moreno finished as finalists in the said event.

Time and time again, Marian beauty queens embody the true spirit of being a Marian, proving that even on the stages of pageantry, they are always inspired by mission and driven by excellence.

Congratulations, Marians!

—
Report by Monica Joeanne Bullecer
Pubmat by Josel Noej Sopongco

06/08/2024

Dalawang magkaibang salita ang wika at kasaysayan. Gayunman, nagtatagpo sila sa iisang ideya—pareho nilang tangan ang makabuluhan nilang kontribusyon sa ating mga diwa. At sa dulo ng lahat, wika at kasaysayan ang buhay ng bayan.

Ngayong Agosto, kaakbay natin ang buong bansa para ipagbunyi ang selebrasyon ng Buwan ng Wika at Buwan ng Kasaysayan. Sa temang “Filipino: Wikang Mapagpalaya,” binibigyang-diin ang hindi matatawarang kahalagahan ng ating pambansang wika na siyang nagsisilbing paraan para ipagsigawan ang malayang pamamahayag at maging instrumento sa demokrasya at mapagpalayang mga kaisipan.

Gayundin ang temang “Salaysay ng Bayan, Saysay ng Bansa,” na siyang uukit sa isipan na ang ating kasaysayan ay binubuo ng mga masasaganang kuwento at salaysay ng nakaraang nagbibigay anyo sa ating kolektibong pagkilos tungong kinabukasan.

Ngayon, higit kailanman, ang hamon sa atin ay hindi natatapos sa dulo ng buwan ng Agosto, sapagkat ang tunay na hamon sa atin ay ipagpatuloy ang diwa ng wika at kasaysayan. Kaya naman, magsulat, magsanaratibo, magsalita, at magpahayag bitbit ang wikang atin at maging instrumento sa pag-unlad ng kasaysayan.

Mapagpalayang buwan ng wika at makabuluhang buwan ng kasaysayan, Marians!

—

05/08/2024

Iinog ang mundo at ipagkakaloob sa atin ang panibagong panuruang-taon—saka muling magbubukas ang mga pahinang lalapatan ng bawat naratibong ihahayag ng panahon. At ang totoo, maaaring maupos ang tapang para harapin ang katotohanang bitbit nitong lahat—pero tiyak na sa palad ng peryodismo, hindi nauubos ang kakayahang ito'y ipaglaban.

Malugod na ipinakikilala ng The MARIAN ang mga bubuo sa punong patnugutan ng pahayagan para sa panuruang-taon 2024-2025—silang mangunguna sa pakikibaka para sa katotohanan, bitbit ang kakayahan na maging boses at mukha ng ating komunidad sa loob at labas ng kampus.

Editor-in-Chief: Marielle Camonayan
Associate Editor: Kimberly Ann Tugade
Managing Editor: Jemimah Ziz Grospe
News Editor: Zinah Belle Manzano
Features Editor: Niña Mae Quitoras
Literary Editor: John Lord Gaspar
Development Communication Editor: Lorraine Sofia Bunagan
Sports Editor: Khitana Jane Castillo
Online Editor: Chyna Ahra Comia
Chief Layout Artist: Princes Diana Maniquis
Chief Graphic Designer: Josel Noej Sopongco
Chief Artist: Margo Delos Reyes
Chief Photojournalist: Jenzon Emeral Baquiran
Head Videographer: Christian Luis Shih
Operations Manager: Marco Gerome P. Sangbaan
Circulations and Communications Manager: Mark Winston Escobar

Kasama niyong TuMindig at sa patuloy na pagtindig! 💙🤍

—

04/08/2024

NEWS UPDATE | SMU bags 1 gold, 2 bronze in PH ROTC Games - Luzon Leg

Six Marian Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) cadets competed in the 2nd Philippine ROTC Games 2024: Luzon Qualifying Leg held in Indang, Cavite, from July 28 to August 3.

With a distance record of 8.48 m, Jesmith Onsat triumphed over his opponents, clinching the gold medal in shot put.

In an interview with The MARIAN, Jesmith Onsat told his preparations as a first-time competitor in the said event.

“[Since] shotput is not really my first game of choice, I had to adjust to perform well in the game. So, I did some minor exercises like push-ups. I have prepared physically," he stated.

“I have been an athlete since elementary school and I have been competing in various events. So, in terms of doubts and nervousness, I don't feel them during competitions. I just do my best and play no matter what the outcome is,” Onsat added.

Moreover, Marian woodpusher Mark Paul Nuñez outsmarted his opponents by pocketing two bronze medals in standard chess and chess-rapid men, and securing 10th place in chess-blitz; while Micaela Sepnio placed 9th in chess-rapid women and chess-blitz.

For athletics, Teodoro Balitti Jr. finished 6th place in 100-meter and 200-meter races, while Bryan Jay Mundiguing landed 9th place in the 1500-meter race.

Meanwhile, Marian paddler Hajee Franz Vallejos fell short of advancing to the quarterfinals after succumbing to his opponent in table tennis men.

In a separate interview with The MARIAN, Domingo Guntalilib, Jr., Head of the National Service Training Program (NSTP), proudly shared his gratefulness to the ROTC Marian athletes.

"With the excellent performances we have seen from our six athletes this ROTC Luzon leg, I am forever grateful for the team who gave all their best in representing Saint Mary's University and bringing honor to the university," he said.

"Having this kind of activity gives our ROTC students the opportunity to showcase their God-given skills, and this somehow boosts their morale as students as this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Guntalilib added.

Furthermore, Jesmith Onsat will be going for the National Games on August 18-24 at Indang, Cavite.

—
Report by Mark Winston Escobar

30/07/2024

Marians, it's enrollment season!

Here is the enrollment schedule for the first semester of the incoming academic year 2024-2025. The enrollment period will last until August 7, 2024 for undergraduate and graduate studies while the petition period is scheduled on August 8.

Please note that the first day of classes will start on Monday, August 12.

Stay updated and see you on campus, Marians!

—
Pubmat by Josel Sopongco

28/07/2024

NEWS | New set of Marian leaders harness skills thru leadership training

In preparation for the new academic year, elected co-curricular and extra-curricular organization student-leaders attended a two-day Marian Leader's Capacitation Training-Workshop organized by the Office of Student Affairs and Services (ODSAS) held at Aula Maria Hall on July 6 and Sacred Heart Center on July 26.

In his speech, Mr. Samuel B. Damayon, Dean of Student Affairs and Services, stressed the importance of student leaders in leading and serving the studentry and community.

"As student leaders, you hold the potential to inspire, to guide, and to create lasting change within our university and outside communities," Damayon said.

Subsequently, speakers of the event underscored the importance of implementing activities that are centered on human rights, social justice, and environmental advocacies, peer-support and safe spaces, and university ISO standards during the first day of the said event.

Moreover, the second day put emphasis on the importance of discipline and delayed gratification for achieving success, updates in the student handbook, financial management of organizations, branding and visual identity of the university in documents and publications, enhanced policies and guidelines on student affairs and services, community extensions and outreach programs.

Furthermore, a workshop was allotted during the first day for brainstorming and creating action plans while the second day focused on the discussion of student concerns and possible solutions per category.

In an interview with The MARIAN, Jemille Culanag, the incoming president of Education Central Board of Students shared that apart from the lectures, the event also taught them the importance of drawing a line between being a student and a leader.

"Students are sent to school in order to learn, and being a student leader was a personal choice. So, it's important to know your responsibilities and be able to balance your life as a student and as a leader," she said.

—
Report by Zinah Belle Manzano
Photos by Margo delos Reyes

19/07/2024

NEWS | SMU produces 21 newly licensed Master Plumbers

Twenty-one new Marian Master Plumbers passed the recent Registered Master Plumber Licensure examination last July 13-14, 2024.

According to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Saint Mary’s University obtained an overall passing rate of 46.67%.

The following are the new Marian Registered Master Plumbers:
1. Jamaica Mae Pallaya Andaya, RMP
2. Engr. Angelica Madayag Basilio, RMP
3. Angelica Alvaro Bautista, RMP
4. Engr. Kamille Jemiah Sobrepeña Calucag, RMP
5. Engr. Adrianne Karl Cabauatan Cauilan, RMP
6. Engr. Ella Marie Caranguian Paladin, RMP
7. Engr. Mel Jay Fernandez Quimo, RMP
8. Engr. Jamil Galera Versola, RMP
9. Engr. Melody Jane Maraggay Acar, RMP
10. Engr. Xyra Kate Luis Bangayan, RMP
11. Reymart Gabieta Berras, RMP
12. Engr. Keith Balagot Cauagdan, RMP
13. Hazel Erika Mimban Cordero, RMP
14. Engr. Gliezel Mercado Dacayo, RMP
15. Engr. Yvonne Lore Sagabaen Gualon, RMP
16. Mark Angelo Navarro Olonan, RMP
17. Engr. Fate Jasmin Hermitanio Ortiz, RMP
18. Romar Pattoc Puyao, RMP
19. Weinfred Pablo Queral, RMP
20. Engr. George Salao Torejas, RMP
21. Engr. Mhiela Joy Padilla Udan, RMP

A total of 2,936 out of 6,191 or 47.42% is the national passing rate for the said board exam.

—
Report by Zinah Manzano

13/07/2024

| 96th Commencement Exercises

It's been a week since the horizon beckoned and Marian graduates answered with courage to venture out and embrace a new beginning. With hearts afire and minds ablaze, they set forth to make a difference, leave a mark, and serve with excellence wherever their mission calls them.

Let us look back to the moments of pride, happiness, and triumph as our now-marian alumni move forward—always inspired by mission and driven by excellence

Congratulations, Marian graduates!

—
Video Clips by Jenzon Baquiran, Luis Shih, and Alvin Vicente
Edited by Jenzon Baquiran and Luis Shih

07/07/2024

| Kindness pinned by a stranger

As you enter the gates of the university that day, people would hand bouquets and corsages of different colours for you to buy. But a different case was seen in-front of the Gymnasium. As all other vendors pursue parents and visitors with convincing remarks of having fresh and handmade flowers, one vendor was patiently waiting to lend a hand and fix the graduates' graduation toga and hood.

The vibrant colors of flowers arranged by sizes and prices were nothing to the radiating heart of Genemar Barozza, a Marian alumnus and a vendor of bouquets and corsages. In one of the graduates' accounts, he seemed to be like a “fairy godmother” to the graduating students who offered pins and even fixed their togas and hood without anything in return.

In an interview with The MARIAN, Barroza said that he felt genuinely happy upon seeing Marian graduates and would gladly help them in ensuring that they are in their best dress when receiving their diploma.

“Noong grumaduate kasi ako, maganda 'yong porma ng toga ko noon. Gusto ko po silang nae-encourage din na maganda 'yong suot nilang toga, na maayos. Ayokong hindi maganda yung ayos nila ng hood,” Barozza said with a smile on his face.

As a Marian alumnus, he narrated that he knew the importance of a graduation ceremony, as when during his time he was a working-student juggling both his academics while selling his handcrafted flower bouquets.

Barroza also shared that he has been helping out Marian graduating students with their togas and hoods every graduation where he happens to be selling his craft. He extends his help even to the graduates who would only pass by and not buy his products.

“Natutuwa akong natutulungan ko sila. Kung anong saya ng puso ko, ganoon din tuwing tinutulungan ko sila,” he stated.

It is indeed true that graduations are one of the happiest moment a person could have, and to share this moment with an unexpected pin of kindness is definitely a core memory to be cherished.

—
Article by Marielle Camonayan and Kimberly Tugade
Photos by Marielle Camonayan

07/07/2024

| Love behind the wheels

That day, as he walked with his dad on-stage to earn his hard-earned diploma, there were two eyes watching him filled with anticipation; there were two hands clapping for him and in some moments trying to reach a pink handkerchief to wipe the tears running down her cheeks; all these with six feet on the ground—two of them paralyzed, and four were wheels.

It was his mom, Janeth Grospe, on a wheelchair watching his name flash on-screen with various awards, and patiently waited by the side of Tonus Gymnasium as he, Jerry Felix, handed her a bachelor's degree in Accountancy.

In an interview with The MARIAN, his sister revealed that Janeth had gone through an unfortunate kidney failure, making her not able to stand up and accompany her son on-stage.

Persistent, she insisted to come, as it was their tradition since elementary to have her witness her son receive all his awards.

"Actually noong hindi pa siya naka-wheelchair, or wala pang dinadamdam noon, gustong-gusto niya talagang um-attend ng graduation or recognition ko. Ever since kasi bata pa ako, or elementary, lagi siyang uma-attend para sabitan ako ng mga medals," Jerry said.

For Jerry, it was unfortunate that now that he's in college, and now that the final graduation rite has come, his mom who used to accompany him was not able to touch the stage.

"Nakakalungkot na ngayong final na, na dito sa kolehiyo, unfortunately, hindi niya ako nasamahan sa taas pero nandito siya pa rin kasi gusto niyang masaksihan mga na-accomplish ko," he added as his mom looked at him with pride in her eyes, and tears catched by her pink handkerchief.

When asked about his message to his family, Jerry reminisced all his parents' sacrifices that led to his graduation.

"Mayroong mga times na financially-challenged talaga kami. Madaming times na need ng mother ko na kumuha ng mga labada para may maipambayad sa tuition ko. Si Papa naman, isa siyang livestock buyer na need niya pang ibenta 'yon para sa matrikula," he said, as all the other family members get teary-eyed, remembering the times.

"Nagpapasalamat ako na kahit mahirap 'yong buhay, mayroon talaga silang, parang urge na patapusin 'yong mga anak nila," he added.

Rene Felix, his father, expressed his gratitude for his son, reiterating that no matter how many challenges were faced by them, their sacrifices are no match to the excellence Jerry has showed.

That day was not only his graduation, but a day filled with a mother's love, felt in the screeches of those four wheels strolling across the hallways of the gymnasium. For some, it may not mean anything, but for Jerry, it meant that she was there, despite it all. It meant that no hindrance weighed more than the love she carried—and that she was willing to bring it to him—even on a wheelchair.

Congratulations, Jerry!

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Article by Marielle Camonayan
Photos by Marielle Camonayan and Jenzon Baquiran