Genré - The Central Student Publication of Wesleyan University-Philippines

Genré - The Central Student Publication of Wesleyan University-Philippines The Official Student Publication of Wesleyan University-Philippines As a journalistic publication, Genre enjoys editorial independence.
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Formerly named The Chronicle (established in 1949), Genré is the central student publication of the university. Genré usually issues a newsletter, Tabloid and/or magazine edition during the first semester, and another newsletter, Broadsheet and/or literary folio during the second semester (frequency of publication is determined according to editorial preference). The editors and staff writers of t

he publication are known for their achievements in press congresses and other major off-campus competitions and award-giving bodies. For instance Region III's first TOSP awardee (Jerome Dayao) and all of WU-P's Ayala Young Leaders have been editors of the publication. Members of the editorial board and staff are selected through a competitive entrance examination every June or July. The adviser is the only personnel designated by the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs to handle the publication.

NEWS | Genré wins big on first try at 23rd Word Cup Journalism MasterclassGenré, The Central Student Publication of Wesl...
08/12/2024

NEWS | Genré wins big on first try at 23rd Word Cup Journalism Masterclass

Genré, The Central Student Publication of Wesleyan University-Philippines, made a remarkable debut at the 23rd Word Cup on its Eighth National Journalism Masterclass, held from December 5 to 7, 2024, at Faith Village Gardens, Boracay, Malay, Aklan.

Competing against schools across the country, the publication clinched one gold medal, three silvers, one bronze, and three honorable mention awards despite having a limited number of delegates.

Among the participants was Ashee Herdellayne Duazo, who bagged a gold medal for News Writing (Filipino) and a silver for Copyreading and Headline Writing (Filipino).

Ken Mark Torres also earned two silver medals for Column Writing (Filipino) and Copyreading and Headline Writing (Filipino). Additionally, Torres received an Honorable Mention for Mobile Journalism.

Adding to the team’s win, Jazcentael Solano secured two Honorable Mentions in Copyreading and Headline Writing (Filipino) and Mobile Journalism.

Meanwhile, Aloha Balbuena, School Paper Adviser (SPA) competing under Professional category, brought home a bronze medal for Column Writing (English) and an Honorable Mention for Copyreading and Headline Writing (English).

The event offered different categories such as News Writing, Feature Writing, Column Writing, Sports Writing, Photojournalism, Mobile Journalism, and Copy Reading and Headline Writing that were participated by various schools from primary, secondary, tertiary, and school paper advisers.

Words by Ashee Herdellayne
Photo by Jazcentael Solano and Ken Mark Torres



Genré-The Central Student Publication of Wesleyan University-Philippines won 1 gold medal, 3 silvers, 1 bronze, and 3 ho...
07/12/2024

Genré-The Central Student Publication of Wesleyan University-Philippines won 1 gold medal, 3 silvers, 1 bronze, and 3 honorable mention awards from 23rd Word Cup on its eighth national journalism masterclass at Faith Village Gardens, Boracay, Malay, Aklan on December 5-7, 2024.

“Aling pag-ibig pa ang hihigit kaya sa pagkadalisay at pagkadakila gaya ng pag-ibig sa tinubuang lupa? Aling pag-ibig pa...
30/11/2024

“Aling pag-ibig pa ang hihigit kaya sa pagkadalisay at pagkadakila gaya ng pag-ibig sa tinubuang lupa? Aling pag-ibig pa? Wala na nga, wala.”

Mula sa mga salitang binitawan ni Andres Bonifacio, ating alalahanin ang kaniyang walang kapantay na tapang at pagmamahal sa bayan na ugat ng ating selebrasyon ngayong ika-30 ng Nobyembre. Si Bonifacio, tagapagtatag at Supremo ng Katipunan, ang nagpasiklab ng Rebolusyong Pilipino noong 1896 laban sa mga Espanyol. Ngunit ating alalahanin na hindi lamang si Bonifacio ang nag-aklas at pumunit ng sedula; kasama niya ang mga kapwa Katipunero na mayroong layuning ipaglaban ang kalayaan ng bansa mula sa mga mananakop.

Sa kasalukuyang panahon, ang ating tungkulin ay ipagpatuloy ang labang sinimulan ng ating naunang mga bayani – maging kasangkapan sa pagputol ng mga maling kaisipan at maging mandirigma sa paghahanap ng katotohanan.

Words by Ashee Herdellayne Duazo
Layout by Dacey Tagle


JUST IN | College of Nursing achieves 96.07% passing rate with 1 Top Notcher in November 2024 PNLEWesleyan University-Ph...
29/11/2024

JUST IN | College of Nursing achieves 96.07% passing rate with 1 Top Notcher in November 2024 PNLE

Wesleyan University-Philippines (WU-P) College of Nursing produced 171 newly Registered Nurses (RNs) out of 178 first-time takers, resulting in 96.07% passing rate in the November 2024 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination (PNLE).

Meanwhile, Amia Francezka Aquino Bautista earned the 9th spot in the top 10 with a score of 90.80%.

Aligned with the overall passing rate surpassing the national passing rate of 84.99%, WU-P cemented their status as the number one producer of nurses in Nueva Ecija.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office III has commended WU-P for its outstanding performance, which underscored the university’s role as a leader in nursing education in Central Luzon.

LOOK | Wesleyan University-Philippines kicks off its first week of enrollment in all levels for the second semester of A...
29/11/2024

LOOK | Wesleyan University-Philippines kicks off its first week of enrollment in all levels for the second semester of A.Y 2024-2025 which started last November 26 at the university gymnasium.

According to the registrar's personnel in charge, only 0.6 percent of students have enrolled since the first day.

The enrollment period will continue until December 7. Nonetheless, the university is giving consideration to students who cannot reach the last date of the enrollment period, extending the chance for them to enroll until the first week of classes.

Word by Rayzell Padilla
Photo by Angelica Gaytos


WU-P, CLSU, NEUST, OLFU Psychology students, nag-alyansa para sa mental health promotionSa pangunguna ng Wesleyan Univer...
28/11/2024

WU-P, CLSU, NEUST, OLFU Psychology students, nag-alyansa para sa mental health promotion

Sa pangunguna ng Wesleyan University-Philippines (WU-P) Psychology Society (PsychSoc), muling nagbigay-kamalayan patungkol sa mental health ang mga student-researchers mula sa Psychology program ng Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), at Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU) nang idaos ang 2nd Mental Health Research Congress (MHRC) kahapon, ika-15 ng Nobyembre, sa JJDG Auditorium.

Laman ng temang “Pag-unawa, Paglinga at Pag-asa: Advancing Mental Health Research in the Filipino Context,” itinampok ng programa ang kahalagahan ng kamalayan sa kalusugang mental, at maihayag ang iba’t ibang pag-aaral ukol sa usaping ito.

Binigyang-diin din ni College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Dean, Marietta B. Agustin, PhD ang kahalagahan ng pag-uugnay at pag-aayon ng mga pananaliksik sa mental health sa kontekstong lokal.

Aniya, “Our research should not only focus on global issues—we need to understand and appreciate the local context of the issues that we want to confront.”

Sa kabilang banda, nag bigay pahayag naman ang CAS Psychology Program Head na si Prof. Jay Errol Baral, PhD patungkol sa importansya ng pagpapakilala sa kahalagahan ng Mental Health, lalo na sa Pilipinas.

“So napaka-halaga ngayon na sa makabagong panahon na iinform natin 'yung mga tao sa paligid natin kung pa'no nga ba nakaka-apekto sa physical, sa mental, and emotional aspect ng isang tao 'yung kaniyang mental well-being.” Ani Dr. Baral.

Bago matapos ang congress, inanunsyo ni Baral na gaganapin ang susunod na Mental Health Research Congress sa pangunguna ng OLFU.

Words by Rayzell Padilla
Photo by Owen Fabia


SPORTS FEATURE | Steering the team: The passion and drive of a Captain BallIn every game, competition, and battle, victo...
27/11/2024

SPORTS FEATURE | Steering the team: The passion and drive of a Captain Ball

In every game, competition, and battle, victory is never guaranteed; losing is a natural thing. In basketball, for example, both teams are given 48 minutes to prove their worth, striving to score more points than their opponents to win the game and hail as victors. Only one can take home the title and celebrate, while the other comes home with grief, doubt, and sometimes, even pain.

The poem entitled ‘O Captain! My Captain!’ talks about loss, which is an embodiment of the passionate 20-year-old Wesleyan Knights Men’s Basketball Team’s current Captain – Ken Umali, who is currently a 3rd-year BSBA (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) major in Marketing Management student at Wesleyan University-Philippines (WU-P).

​Basketball has been a part of Umali’s life for over a decade. His journey started when he was just in his 4th grade, inspired by his father, a regular player in barangay leagues. From those early days, Ken’s love for the game only deepened. Throughout his elementary years at Bishop Sofio Balce Memorial School, he was not only a standout player but also helped lead his team and represent the division of Palayan in CLRAA (Central Luzon Regional Athletics Association). Meanwhile, during his first year in WU-P, Umali, together with the Wesleyan Knights, brought home third place during the PRISAA (Private Schools Athletic Association) – a competition that he regularly participated in from his high school days at College of the Immaculate Conception (CIC).

​Ken is a great player – but he stressed that his skills and his long experience in the game weren’t the main reason why he was appointed as the team captain. “Willingness na manalo siguro ‘yung ano [mayroon] ako. Hindi ako naglalaro ng basketball para matalo. Hindi ako nagpapakapagod ng sagad-sagad sa training para magpatalo”. He said that his relentless drive for victory is what fuels his desire to continue improving. Despite grueling 4 AM training sessions every weekday, Umali and his teammates do not put in effort and do all these just to go to a game, perform mediocrity, and lose. All of these are done to bring them one step closer to their ultimate goal: to win.

​Yet, in sports, even though all is said and done to win, victory is still not certain. No matter how skilled, prepared, or dedicated a team is, there will always be moments of failure. Umali and the Knights learned this the hard way when they lost their title of defending champions to the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) on November 15, 2024. Umali admitted that their loss was painful as they failed to bring home the University’s title for this season – he even commended their rival as their team was truly skilled and capable.

​Nonetheless, Umali still has high hopes for his team. After their loss, they went straight to training to correct the mistakes that they’ve made, and to ensure that it will never be done in future matches ever again. He has high expectations for his team and due to the loss – they’re more fueled to up their level of basketball. With a renewed sense of purpose, the Knights are more motivated than ever to return to the court and claim the championship next season.

​O Captain! My Captain! Umali is indeed just like the poem says. Though Umali and the Knights grieve their loss, they also celebrate the journey—the sacrifices, the lessons, and the camaraderie that come with every game. Ken Umali is indeed more than a remarkable basketball player, he is also a true captain, and a leader, inspiring his teammates to be better every day, in every game, pushing forward despite any hurdles. Together with his team, they can conquer anything.

Words by Ara Bella Agnes
Layout by Dacey Tagle
Photo by Owen Fabia


SPORTS FEATURE | How Emmanuel Samson Became The Face Of Wesleyan Knights Men’s Volleyball Emmanuel Samson is undoubtedly...
25/11/2024

SPORTS FEATURE | How Emmanuel Samson Became The Face Of Wesleyan Knights Men’s Volleyball

Emmanuel Samson is undoubtedly one of the most well-known volleyball players in Wesleyan University-Philippines (WU-P).

Even if you don’t watch volleyball religiously, the name Eman Samson will surely ring a bell. Going beyond his role as a varsity athlete, he has become a household name in the university, showcasing his influence beyond the court, making a lasting impact on his university and the wider volleyball community.

“I’m a big fighter pagdating sa industry ng volleyball, and palagi kong sinasabi sa sarili ko na kailangan kong mag-work hard. Hard worker din ako as an athlete. Hindi ko rin hinahayaang maiwan ‘yung grades ko—na ibigay ko ‘yung full focus and oras ko dito lang, sa isang bagay na ‘to. I’m good in terms of balancing.” said Samson, noting that his ability to manage his academic and athletic responsibilities is key to his success

Ten-year veteran and Wesleyan Knights captain Emmanuel Samson, who excelled in men's volleyball, found that WU-P inspired him to compete on the varsity team and keep honing his skills. By starting a new path as a student and continuing to compete as an athlete, Samson demonstrated that dedication calls for a high level of responsibility. It always comes down to discipline and time management, whether you manage or make sacrifices. Despite the challenges of time and responsibilities, what matters is the determination to keep setting and spiking.

From college courts

In his volleyball career as a Wesleyanian, he definitely stood out, even playing with a group dubbed the ‘Wesleyan Knights.’ He was part of the Regional Team Cabanatuan from elementary up to high school, who played in Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA) which he considered a dream of every athlete. He even got an offer from Far Eastern University (FEU) and University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). However, his decision to stay closer to home, prioritizing his mother's sake over this career opportunity, speaks to the values he holds dear.

Moving his influence to the professional scene

Eman’s vibrant career as a college player cultivated a dedicated fanbase that followed him—his family. Thus, when he moved to WU-P, he brought with him a love deeply invested in the volleyball world, and he continued to whet their appetite with his achievements. But apart from his individual achievements, it’s his leadership that has truly set him apart. As the captain of the Wesleyan Knights, he’s guided his team to multiple championships—making him one of the winningest players in Wesleyan volleyball.

A contagious passion for volleyball

One thing that separates Eman Samson from the pack is his passion for the sport, easily readable on the smile on his face whenever he is on the court.

Whenever Eman’s team scores a point, and even when they lose a point, he always responds with a contagious smile that stretches from ear to ear. With this, he encourages those around him. His lighthearted energy, even in the most heated of games radiates among the team, and is just another X-factor that Samson possesses, as he uses this power to put his teammates at ease while inspiring them, and you don’t need to be a member of the squad to see this for yourself.

“Matalo, manalo, sinasabi ko sa sarili ko na ‘this is meant for me.’ Natalo ‘ko, this is meant for me. Nanalo ko, this is meant for me. Pag natatalo, hindi mawawala minsan—‘yung mindset ko—‘Ano ‘yung naging kulang? Sa’n kinapos? Sa’n ako dapat mag-work pa nang mas matagal, mas mahaba?’ As much as possible, ‘yung mindset ko lagi, dapat panalo. Sa training, ang mindset ko, kailangan focus kasi magti-training ako. Dito ko ii-identify kung okay ba ‘ko para sa mga magiging laro ko. Or kung hindi ako okay, ano ‘yung iwo-work out ko para maging okay ako. I-apply kung ano ‘yung magiging aral.”

This may even be his biggest strength. It takes more than a great player to draw tens of thousands of fans to an arena, and because his passion for volleyball is so vibrant, it makes others feel the same level of deep passion for the sport and everyone else on the court.

“‘Yung madalas ko lang naman na injury ko is leg sprain. Mayro’ng phase sa volleyball career ko na nag-stop talaga ‘kong maglaro for like six to seven months tapos pagbalik ko ulit ng paglalaro, dahil sa pandemic ‘yon, mayro’n akong na-experience na patellar injury. Dito sa tuhod, hindi ka talaga makatalon. So nag-back to zero talaga ‘ko. Dahil do’n, bumaba ‘yung morale ko as an athlete. It really [affected] my composure. Bumalik lang ako sa dating kong ginagawa. Nagjo-jogging ako, bumalik ako sa gym tapos hindi ko talaga iniwan. Isang aya lang sakin ng kasama ko, go na agad ako maglaro.”

Injuries and setbacks have not stopped Samson. If anything, it has shown him that will-power and drive are what is needed to win. With their mindset and great leadership skills, hurdles are nothing but mere obstacles than he, together with his team can overcome.

While Eman Samson’s rise coincided with the sport’s rise in visibility and opportunities, he has made the sport entirely his own, in such a way that makes everyone else understand why volleyball was worth becoming one of the university’s top sports.

Even in the face of setbacks, Samson’s passion remains unshaken. Despite the physical and emotional toll, he didn’t give up. Instead, he used the time to rebuild his strength, returning to the court with a renewed sense of purpose. "I just kept going," he says, reflecting on how his resilience helped him bounce back stronger than ever.

Words by Jeremy Panagsagan
Layout by Dacey Tagle
Photo by The Ledger


SPORTS FEATURE | Rising Star of the Knights: How WU-P Freshman Bryner Boado earned Rookie of the YearNueva Ecija Collegi...
22/11/2024

SPORTS FEATURE | Rising Star of the Knights: How WU-P Freshman Bryner Boado earned Rookie of the Year

Nueva Ecija Collegiate Sports League (NECSL) made its highly anticipated return this season after a five-year hiatus, bringing new energy and tough competition to the court. For the WU-P Knights, who have been champions since 2019, the focus was not only on defending their title, but also on the development of a new talent: freshman Bryner Boado, whose outstanding performance earned him the coveted Rookie of the Year award on November 13, 2024. It was a remarkable achievement for a player who, just a few years ago, was sharpening his moves in provincial high school leagues.

Bryner Boado’s journey to stardom started in the small courts of his high school, where his passion for basketball began to blossom. As he progressed, so did his opportunities, playing in regional leagues and representing his province in prestigious tournaments. By the time he was in Grade 11, he was already competing in major leagues like the National Basketball League (NBL) and the Provincial Meet. However, the transition to collegiate basketball came with new challenges.

Stepping into college basketball felt like moving to a much bigger stage—the games were nothing like the high school matches he used to shine in, where being bigger often gave players an edge. As he experienced changes, he observed the difference in high school basketball and in collegiate level which is that having just a great body build isn’t enough to be a good player inside the court but also about having skills, knowing strategies, and consistent determination. As a freshman player for the WU-P Knights, joining a team with a proud legacy of success known as the “Home of the Champions” added an extra layer of pressure. But rather than being overwhelmed by these expectations, Boado used them as motivation to prove he belonged.

His ability to handle pressure and expectations comes down to a simple mindset: “Manalo, gawin ang sinasabi ng coach, at ilaro lang ang laro ko.” Beyond skills and physical strength, he believes that discipline, hard work, and commitment are the qualities that set great players apart.

Understanding the pressures of collegiate basketball needed not only athletic skills, but also mental toughness and the capacity to handle any situation. Boado approached every game with a clear focus on his goals: to give his best, trust his coach, and stay true to his game.

“Ang mga maliliit na bagay, pag ‘di mo sinunod, lalaki ang epekto. 'Yong mindset kailangan bawat araw may ma-gain ka,” Boado advised, showing a maturity that belies his rookie status.

For him, success wasn’t just about talent, it was about discipline, hard work, and dedication. He believed that small things are what make the biggest difference, by giving his all in every practice, learning from every play, and always pushing himself to get better.

Boado shared a valuable lesson for aspiring players: “Maging masipag at disiplinado. Gawin lang ang mga itinuturo ng coach. Kada ensayo, dapat may natutunan ka. Ang laro dapat papataas, hindi pababa.”

In every game, Bryner Boad as a rookie player, consistently shows his perseverance and an endless drive to do better. As the WU-P Knights continue their NECSL journey, their early achievements are testaments to the fact that even under intense pressure, champions rise. Boado is a player to watch in the seasons to come. The best may be yet to come for this rising star, whose rookie season has already set the bar for future players in the league.

His commitment to growth both on and off the court has not only earned him accolades but has set an example for other young players. For Boado, every practice is an opportunity to improve, and every game is a chance to deliver.

Words by Kristine Fajardo
Layout by Dacey Tagle


SPORTS FEATURE | Dennise Mateo: The Heartbeat of the WUP Knights’ CourtUnder the intense lights of the Nueva Ecija Colle...
20/11/2024

SPORTS FEATURE | Dennise Mateo: The Heartbeat of the WUP Knights’ Court

Under the intense lights of the Nueva Ecija Collegiate Sports League (NECSL) court, Dennise Mateo isn’t merely playing volleyball; she’s creating a work of art. As the co-captain of the Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) Knights Women’s Volleyball Team, she combines her athleticism, passion, and leadership to create a powerful presence on the court which shows her dedication and ability to lead the team in the field of volleyball.

Like Denisse, volleyball holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, a sport enjoyed across generations and embraced both as a recreational activity and a competitive game. Over the years, the sport has grown in popularity, with major events like the Palarong Pambansa, Shakey's Super League, and the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) that showcase some of the best collegiate and professional talents.

Dennise’s journey inside the court started back in her fourth grade in elementary school. What started as a simple interest quickly blossomed into a dedicated pursuit. Mateo moved from local competitions to regional tournaments, each step honing her skills and pushing her toward greater goals. Eventually, she reached the prestigious Palarong Pambansa and CLRAA, earning recognition along the way.

Throughout her journey, she has accumulated bronze medals—not as symbols of failure, but as reminders of the hard-fought matches that shaped her into the player she is today. “People often see medals and think about rankings, but for me, it’s about the lessons,” she shared.

WU-P Knights recently presented themselves as the Nueva Ecija Collegiate Sports League returned after a five-year hiatus, an opportunity to prove themselves once again. After leading her collegiate team at Palarong Wesleyan to a championship triumph in her freshman year, she was named Most Valuable Player, a crowning achievement that proved her comeback.

Dennise credits her success to their coach, Rambert Pascual, and assistant coach, Gerriedel Sison, who have helped cultivate her leadership skills both on and off the court. “I wouldn’t be here if Coach Rambert didn’t trust me,” she humbly admitted.

Off the court, Mateo’s leadership extends beyond volleyball. She also serves as the Governor of the Cultural Arts and Sports Development Office (CASDO) while balancing her academic duties as a marketing student. Juggling these responsibilities isn’t easy as it often leads to sleepless nights and tough decisions.

“People think being a volleyball player is just about playing, but they don’t see the hours of practice, the late nights preparing for school, or the physical pain we push through. It’s a balancing act, but I’ve learned to manage my time wisely.” Mateo stated.

Like any athlete, Dennise has faced her share of backlash. But instead of letting it drag her down, she uses it as motivation. “If people doubt me, I channel that energy into performing even better. Criticism pushes me to work harder,” she said with conviction. Her mindset has evolved over the years. Losses no longer linger; instead, they become stepping stones. “There’s always another game,” she added.

Just like any other college athlete, Mateo sees volleyball as an ephemeral moment and chapter in her life. Her advice to aspiring athletes is simple yet powerful: “Enjoy your time in the game. You won’t always be the strongest, and you won’t always have these moments. Make the most of them while they last.”

As the WUP Knights fight their way through NECSL Season 9, Dennise Mateo proves she’s more than just a player or a captain. She’s the team’s driving force—the one who keeps them motivated with her passion and unrelenting drive. With Dennise on the court, the Knights remain united, ready to face any challenge that comes their way.

Words by Kristine Faith Fajardo
Layout by Dacey Tagle
Photo credits to The Ledger and Dennis Mateo


LOOK | CAS celebs new RSWs from September 2024 SWLEThe College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Social Work Society recognized...
20/11/2024

LOOK | CAS celebs new RSWs from September 2024 SWLE

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Social Work Society recognized the 46 newly-registered Social Workers from September 2024 Social Workers Licensure Examination (SWLE), with an 88.10 percent passing rate, through a Thanksgiving Service and Testimonial Dinner held at Luzviminda Event Center, November 15.

During the celebration, the newly licensed RSWs reminisced and shared their testimonies all throughout their journey from being a Social Work student, until they graduated, and passed the SWLE.

Meanwhile, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Dr. Wilfredo Ramos, also acknowledged the success of the passers.

"You're often described as capless heroes, tending to the needs of the most vulnerable. While you may not wield stethoscope and medical tools, you use your hearts and hands... to serve as channels of God's blessings, bringing hope and healing where it is most needed," VPAA stated.

According to Mrs. Pauline Lumina Gaea M. Viola, Social Work Program Head, the results from the recent examination was higher than that of 2023, and exceeded their expected average of 80.

Words by Elaisa Ena Sales
Photos by Ardy Cruz


𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗜 | 𝗞𝗨𝗠𝗨𝗡𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗜𝗠𝗨𝗟𝗔12:58 AMKung tatanungin mo ako kung bakit isinisilid ko ang aking mga gamit sa sisidlan, ang sag...
18/11/2024

𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗜 | 𝗞𝗨𝗠𝗨𝗡𝗢𝗬

𝗦𝗜𝗠𝗨𝗟𝗔

12:58 AM

Kung tatanungin mo ako kung bakit isinisilid ko ang aking mga gamit sa sisidlan, ang sagot ko ay:

“Dahil gusto kong maglakbay.”

𝗞𝗔𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗔 1: 𝗕𝗔𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗔𝗪

“Ely, gising!”

Naalimpungatan ako mula sa sunud-sunod na tapik ng aking ina.

Sa aking pagdilat, bumungad sa akin ang maliwanag na kapaligiran. Wala na ang dilim na bumalot sa aming lugar sa loob ng dalawang araw. Maging ang nakabibinging pagbagsak ng mabigat na patak ng ulan ay napalitan na ng mga ibong humuhuni.

“Bangon na, Ely! Sabi ni Marlon, bumababa na ang tubig. Ayusin na natin ang bahay at nang makauwi na tayo roon,” paliwanag niya sa akin nang makita niyang nanatili ako sa higaan.

Marahan ang naging pagbangon ko dahil sa hapdi ng aking likod. Papag lang din naman ang hinihigaan ko sa bahay, ngunit kahit papaano, may manipis itong kutson. Bigay iyon ng aking tiyahin nang magpasya silang bumili ng bago para sa anak. Hindi naman nagkulang ang papa; sinubukan niyang ibsan ang tigas ng kongkretong sahig sa pamamagitan ng pagpapatong-patong ng ilang karton.

Sa aking pagbangon, lumibot ang aking paningin sa dyim ng aming lungsod. Multipurpose talaga ito, dahil bukod sa liga, ito rin ang nagsisilbing tirahan namin tuwing binibisita ng sakuna.

Gaya namin, isa-isa na rin silang naghahanda upang bumalik sa aming barangay. Malamang ay inabot na rin sila ng magandang balita ni Kuya Marlon.

Tila napawi ang hapdi na aking iniinda, at sa aking paglabas, binati ako ng malawak na bahaghari; mayaman ang bawat linya ng bawat kulay. Bumuga ako ng hangin, at tiwala akong kasabay noon ang paggaan ng aking kalooban.

Hindi man naging madali ang nakaraang mga araw, 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘄 𝗮𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗮𝘂𝘄𝗶 𝗻𝗮 𝗸𝗮𝗺𝗶.

𝗞𝗔𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗔 2: 𝗦𝗜𝗟𝗔𝗪

Hindi kami binigo ng liwanag ng araw sa aming pagbalik.

Matindi na ang sikat nito at opisyal na ring inanunsyong nakalabas na ng bansa ang bagyo. Tama nga ang Kuya Marlon, mababa na ang tubig at maari na kaming maglinis.

Dahil sa humupang sama ng panahon, ang dilim na tumabon sa epekto ng bagyo ay naglaho rin. Naging hayag sa aming paningin ang pinsalang iniwan nito.

Habang sakay ng tricycle ay hindi ko maiwasang silipin ang kalagayan ng aming barangay. Damu-damukal ang kalat ng dahon, tila tinabunan na ang lupang madalas tapakan tuwing maganda ang panahon. Hindi rin nakaligtas ang iilang puno na siyang bumagsak dahil sa malupit na sakuna.

Sumikip ang aking dibdib nang makita ko ang bahay ng aking kaibigan na si Tanya. Siya, ang kaniyang ina, at maging ang ama ay tila naestatwa sa harap ng kanilang tahanan. Diretso ang kanilang mga tayo at nakatingala sa bahay nila na binagsakan ng Gmelina.

Hindi nagtagal ay nakarating din kami sa aming bahay. Bumaba kami ng tricycle at tila mas naging malinaw sa akin ang naramdaman ni Tanya. Ligtas man ang aming tahanan, ngunti ang malaking sanga ng punong mangga ay dumagan sa aming maliit na tindahan.

Marahan ang hakbang namin ni mama palapit doon.

Dahil sa pinasok ng tubig ang aming tahanan, lahat ng sukal na dala nito ay naiwan doon. Makapal na tabon ng lupa ang nasa sahig, samantalang ang mga gamit na hindi naman namin maaring ilikas ay wala na sa magandang kondisyon.

Dumiretso ako sa aking silid at sinipat ang aking mga libro at notebook. Maging ang aming proyekto na ilang linggo ko ring ginugulan ng oras ay hindi na rin mapakikinabangan. Nang marinig ko ang ingay ng walis tingting ni mama ay tumahan na ako pabalik sa katotohanan.

Marami pa kaming aayusin at lilinisin.

Mabigat man ang aking naging pakiramdam, dinampot ko ang isa pang walis at nagsimula na ring maglinis.

Inisip ko, masuwerte pa rin kami dahil paglilinis lang ang sa amin, hindi katulad ng sa iba na nawalan ng tahanan o ‘di kaya ay mismong mahal sa buhay.

“𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘂𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗲 𝗽𝗮 𝗿𝗶𝗻 𝗸𝗮𝗺𝗶,” paulit-ulit kong bulong sa sarili.

𝗞𝗔𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗔 3: 𝗟𝗜𝗬𝗔𝗪

Tila binuhusan ako ng malamig na tubig nang marinig ko ang sinabi ni Papa. Nanghihina man ang aking tinig, hiniling kong sabihin niya iyon muli.

“Lubog ang puwesto natin sa palengke. Lahat ng produkto ay basa at hindi na maaaring ibenta,” saad niya ng may pagkadismaya.

Naubusan ako ng mga salita sapagkat alam ko na ang kasunod noon. Nangyari na ito noon; pagkayari rin ng bagyo, ngunit ang pinagkaiba, si Ate ang nasa sitwasyon ko.

Baon pa sa utang sila Mama matapos ang nakaraang delubyo na siya namang sumira sa dapat na ani sa bukid. Kaya naman sa ikalawang pagkakataon, sinubukan naming bumangon sa pamamagitan ng pagtitinda.

Tumigil ang mundo ko. Paano ko iiwan ang lahat ng pinaghirapan ko? Ang pangarap ko? Pero ramdam kong wala nang ibang paraan. Hindi ko kailangang tanungin kung kailan ako makababalik—dahil alam ko, baka hindi na mangyari iyon.

“𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗵𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗽 𝘁𝗮𝘆𝗼 𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗮𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗸,” dagdag ni Mama, pero alam kong pareho kaming nagdududa sa sinabi niya.

𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗮𝗻.

Tumango ako, ngunit sa loob, parang unti-unti akong lumulubog sa mismong tubig na umagos sa buhay namin.

𝗪𝗔𝗞𝗔𝗦

1:00 AM

Kung hahanapan mo ako ng mas malalim na dahilan, sasabihin ko sa’yo ang katotohanan,

“𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝘆𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗻𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗮𝘄.”

Isinulat ni Angel Jomely Ramos
Sining ni Samantha Ruth Mejia


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