Ang Giya Journal

10/11/2024

On November 6, 2024, the School of Education’s Pre-Service Teachers are set to be deployed for their off-campus teaching experience which will commence on January 20, 2025 to February 28, 2025.

Based on the Department of Education’s Division Memorandum (DM) No. 873 Series of 2024, the following principals of select schools were advised ahead of time on this matter: Maribeth T. Auman of Cagayan de Oro National High School - Junior High (CDONHS JH), Elizer O. Teruel of Gusa Regional Science High School, and Annabel J. Lariba of City Central School. Coordination between the aforementioned school heads and the School of Education’s Dean–Dr. Edralin C. Manla–was requested by the office to guarantee the comprehension of roles and duties bestowed upon the individuals involved.

Access the full memorandum here: https://bit.ly/3UJurwE

Report by Maxi Fajardo

03/11/2024

The grass sways, and memories linger like whispers as the flowers stand as symbols of love, sorrow, and remembrance for the departed. In honoring them, we find that those we cherish are not lost but held close—blooming forever in the heart's quietest corners. Each petal represents a life touched, each bloom a cherished memory—a reminder for us that even in silence, love endures, transcending the boundaries of time and space.

Words by Kyleen Pacana
Literary Piece by Mer Labis
Illustration by Cleofe Ladrera

27/10/2024

EPISODE 2: TXC 2024 Closing Ceremony

The Xavier Cup officially wrapped up its week-long celebration of sportsmanship and solidarity on Saturday, October 26, 2024. University President Fr. Mars B. Tan inaugurated the closing ceremony with his opening remarks, thanking athletes, students, and faculty for their contributions to this year’s intramurals.

After the parade of banners for each college and school, the excitement continued for the much-anticipated Cheer Chant competition, followed by the debut of the first-ever Mega Crew Dance competition. The coalition of the School of Education and College of Computer Studies, dubbed as the Legion, delivered standout performances in both categories.

While they fell short on securing the top spots, the Legion's grooves and team spirit nevertheless left a lasting impression on the audience. The night ended with Legion securing the overall 6th place finish across all categories, having their sights set on the rise for next year’s TXC.

For more updates, keep posted on Ang Giya Journal’s official account—the voice of SOE.

Report by Zoe Quibol

20/10/2024

EPISODE 1: TXC 2024 Opening

Breaking barriers and surpassing limits.

The Xavier Cup 2024 has officially kicked off with the theme “Defy the Odds.” The event began with the torch lighting ceremony, followed by the parade of athletes and the banner-raising competition among the colleges, which showcased a unified spirit of excellence.

The opening program continued with excitement as the XU Gymnasium was filled with chants and clamor, energized by the Hypeman Competition and the thrilling stunts of the highly anticipated Cheerdance competition.

Stay tuned for more updates as Ang Giya Journal will be at the forefront of action.

Report by Maxi Fajardo

19/10/2024

Ang Giya Journal introduces its new Editorial Board for AY 2024-2025. These talented student journalists are committed to producing high-quality content that serves the needs and interests of the Xavier Ateneo School of Education community.

20/04/2024

Mar Calinawan: A call for new leadership system

In a decisive move on April 13, Mar Calinawan (BSEd Social Studies 3), the lone candidate for the presidency of the Teachers’ Guild (TG), under the DASIG partylist, voiced his stance on championing a fresh system of leadership within the School of Education (SOE) student community.

Reflecting on his decision to vie for the position of Teachers’ Guild President, Calinawan divulged the challenging path that led him to this influential moment.

"It was not an easy decision by any means. I had lost my motivation for leadership due to past setbacks, but the drive resurfaced when I realized the pressing need for change, particularly within the SOE—among which is the revitalization of our co-curricular organizations. There's so much I aspire to accomplish, including addressing the needs of our students."

Decidedly, Calinawan articulated his vision for SOE to strengthen its energy across academic, social, and professional facets. When pressed about his proposed platforms and their potential to empower pre-service teachers, Calinawan answered:

"Our top priority is to initiate charter change within the TG, as it no longer caters to the current needs of the student body. It's outdated. We have amendments in mind to address these shortcomings. Additionally, we have plans for co-curricular empowerment. Drawing from my experience as a co-curricular president (XU-KASAPI), I firmly believe in fostering connections—through team building activities and, of course, securing budgets to actualize our goals. We also aim to forge partnerships with educational organizations and communities to better immerse ourselves in our roles as pre-service teachers." Calinawan underscored the party's key priorities once in office, inviting further exploration of DASIG's comprehensive platforms through their page.

When asked why the SOE student community should rally behind him, Calinawan's response was direct. "The answer is simple: I deliver results. I get things done. As an experienced student leader, I don't just make promises—I fulfill them. I've identified the needs within our community, and I, along with my slate, am fully prepared to participate in positive changes."

As the election zeal intensifies, Calinawan's commitment to progress signals a narrative of renewal within the Teachers’ Guild.

Words by Charmie H. Cabiasa
Design by Kevin Matthew Pacana
Photo by TG DASIG

20/04/2024

Vea Baconguis: Action and Compassion for TG Vice Presidency

A sophomore is stepping into the limelight to contend for the vice presidency in the student council, a rather rare yet compelling development. Traditionally, students aiming for lower positions found themselves appointed, if not elected, to higher roles due merely to the demand for leaders. However, a fresh narrative is unfolding—not out of demand, but out of an inner yearning to serve. This time, a dynamic contender from the DASIG partylist, is seeking to garner support from every student of the School of Education. Her mission is to help guide the student body towards the change many have always been calling for, fostering unity and closing divides.

Declared as the class valedictorian of the second batch of the Teacher Education Student Leaders Assembly (TESLA 2), Vea Bacongius, a second-year Education student specializing in Social Studies, emerges as a beacon of hope. She aspires to serve as a bridge between the student council and co-curricular organizations, igniting collaboration through innovative programs and agendas. When asked about her motivation, Bacongius expressed her long-standing interest in outreach programs and the transformative power of leadership.

Bacongius revealed two major initiatives she plans to implement if elected. Firstly, she aims to redefine the representative functions within the council, ensuring clarity and eliminating redundancy. She went on to say that "every representative and officer must understand their roles clearly, avoiding overlap or redundancy." She is eyeing a more integrated Teachers’ Guild and co-curricular organizations through the “Pagtitipon Co-Curricular,” an initiative that will catalyze more participation from the different organizations in crucial times and not only leave the decision-making process to a select few. On top of this is her advocacy for a charter change in order to modernize outmoded provisions that no longer align with the best interest of the students, further emphasizing the importance of legislation in safeguarding student rights and comfort.

Driven by her passion for community outreach and a commitment to inclusivity, Bacongius also wishes to materialize "Munting Lapis," a project designed to empower out-of-school youth through education. This initiative, spanning all specializations, focuses on teaching arithmetic, reading, and writing to underserved communities. By ‘all specializations,’ such a project will tap into the different resources, skills, and talents of the students across all programs and majors.

When faced with challenges and conflicts, Bacongius approaches them with compassion rather than judgment, respecting the diverse perspectives and priorities of her peers and those she is meant to offer service. Drawing from her experiences, she stressed the importance of self-accountability and pragmatism in effective leadership. She believes that consistent and sustainable actions make up the best leader.

In three words, Bacongius describes herself as a progressive, principled, and pragmatic leader. With her vision, determination, and commitment to positive change, she embodies the spirit of leadership that resonates with her fellow Education students and promises to shape the future of the student council.

Words by Djevonah Ogoy and Rosh Entrina
Design by Kevin Matthew Pacana
Photo by TG DASIG

18/04/2024

Ang Giya Journal features the lone presidential and vice presidential candidate, vying for the most coveted seats within the Teachers' Guild Council.

Get to know their stories on April 19, 2024.

Coverage by Roshmond Roi Entrina, Kevin Matthew Pacana, Charmie Cabiasa, Djevonah Ogoy, Seth Jangao
Design by Kevin Matthew Pacana
Photo by TG DASIG

16/04/2024

6 XU SOE delegates excel in FTRC’s Battle of the Brains

On April 13, 2024, six graduating seniors from Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan School of Education participated in the Battle of the Brains: Teacher Education Edition (BOTB) organized by the Falculan Twins’ Review Center (FTRC) at the Grand CAP Auditorium, Davao City.

Dhimple Shane Borden (BSEd Social Studies 4), Roshmond Roi Entrina (BSEd English 4), Marissa Faye Perales (BSEd Social Studies 4), Kyla Alameda (BEEd 4), Deanne Gomahin (BEEd 4), and Marco Emmanuel Sario (BEEd 4) competed against 61 other higher education institutions and 326 other participants from the different regions of Visayas and Mindanao. With them was Dr. Kathleen Morales, faculty from the School of Education.

The elimination round was a 50-item comprehensive exam comprising professional and general education questions. Among the 332 participants, Roshmond Roi bagged the Top 9, Deanne the Top 22, Dhimple the Top 23, and Kyla the Top 29, effectively bringing them to the semi-final round, where they answered the easy and average questions using the provided answer board and chalk.

Dhimple emerged as the Top 3 contender in the semi-final round, leading her to the Grand Quiz Bowl.

BOTB was the first of its kind to be organized by FTRC. Despite the limited time for preparations and review sessions with Mr. Proceso Perturbos III, an alumnus of XU SOE who took the Top 4 of the September 2019 LEPT, the delegates excelled in the competition. A good start for what may become an annual event. The participants from Xavier Ateneo also received full tuition fee discounts for the September 2024 and March 2025 FTRC LEPT reviews.

Along with XU, other institutions also joined: Cebu Normal University, Central Mindanao University, Bukidnon State University, and Philippine Normal University - Mindanao to name a few.

The competition, more than anything, inspired the 6 participants to start paying more attention to their LEPT review journey as they graduate this July, and inch closer to the board examination.

Report by Roshmond Roi Entrina
Layout by Kevin Matthew Pacana
Photo by Marco Emmanuel Sario

07/04/2024

Lubguban, Plaza, crowned XU SOE’s Mr. and Ms. Emblem of Excellency 2024

On April 6, Mr. and Ms. Emblem of Excellency 2024 titles were awarded during the last day of the Education Week, at Xavier University Gymnasium.

Among the outstanding candidates, two pairs represented the freshmen: Heidi Santillan (BSNED 1) and Mer Simon Labis (BSNED 1), along with Akiya Faith Plaza (BSED Math 1) and Heaven Guites (BSED Science 1). The charismatic pair of Kizzy Maagad (BSED English 2) and Barachiel Vidua (BSED Social Studies 2) elevated the sophomore category with their creative flair. As the junior’s representatives, Harsen Japona (BSED Social Studies 3) and John Lord Lubguban (BSED Science 3) embodied the height of glory. Each pair demonstrated wit, elegance, and leadership while sharing their hopes for a better and brighter education.

The evening kicked off with a vibrant production number where the candidates, dressed in attire reminiscent of summer, radiated on stage. The candidates transitioned seamlessly into the following segment, taking the podium once to showcase their advocacies. Then, they graced the stage wearing formal attire from the creations of the renowned designer, Ms. Gil Macaibay III. The candidates remained in their formal wear for the most-awaited question and answer portion. With grace under pressure, they answered with intellect and composure.

Adding to the grandeur of the event were the captivating performances by The Chalkboarders and NSP Learners that wowed the audience. The excitement continued as the presentation of minor and major awards were punctuated which recognized excellence in various categories. Heidi Santillan (BSNED 1) bagged several awards including Best in Formal Wear, Best in Production Number, Ms. Photogenic, and People’s Choice Award. Other recipients of special awards were clinched by Heaven Guites (BSED Science 1) for Best in Production Number, Barachiel Vidua (BSED Social Studies 1) for Mr. Photogenic, and John Lord Lubguban (BSED Science 3) for People’s Choice Award.

The selection process was overseen by a panel of distinguished judges: Mr. Lawrence Pajaron, Ms. Angela Lapore, Mr. Rashid Arnado, and Ms. Gil Macaibay III. Candidates were judged on their grace, wit, and persuasive advocacies. With fierce competition, just two individuals distinguished themselves with their extraordinary traits and steadfast commitment to excellence. John Lord Lubguban (BSED Science 3) and Akiya Faith Plaza (BSED Math 1), emerged as victors for the Mr. and Ms. Emblem of Excellency 2024. Runner up titles were awarded to Heidi Santillan (BSNED 1) and Mr. Heaven Guites (BSED Science 1) as 1st runner up, Harsen Japona (BSED Social Studies 3) and Mer Simon Labis (BSNED 1) as 2nd runner up, and completing the roster of winners were Kizzy Maagad (BSED English 2) and Mr. Barachiel Vidua (BSED Social Studies 2) as 3rd runner up.

Education Week 2024 was a feat of talent, optimism, and dedication. Akiya and John's victory is not just theirs alone—it's a celebration of every individual's capacity to have a positive, lasting impact on education and beyond. They are set to represent XU School of Education in the University’s next edition of Emblem of Excellency pageant.

Report by Noreen Ashley Cabonialda
Photo by Nathan Galleros

29/01/2024

An Eye for AI: Fear Not

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) called the Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3 (GPT3) has brought significant contributions to answering questions, producing stories, and solving mathematical problems. Although some linguists see AI as a threat to language development, it could still benefit us in some ways, particularly in language learning in a classroom setting.

AI is continually advancing and there are firm signs that methods of educating and learning alongside the teaching devices will be significantly changed. Educator guidance and inventiveness, aligned with AI innovation instruments, are an amazing way to encourage students’ improvement in their language learning operations. There are several news articles regarding the disadvantages of AI; fears sprout from the idea of its existence. What most people fail to see is the efficiency of practice that the language machines bring, principally as we integrate technology and teaching. Assuredly, they have their risks just like every man-made machine has, but the need to adapt to the everchanging environment is crucial.

Technology provides what society needs. AI helps us achieve our goals, both short term and long-term—but too much reliance is inhibited. Viewing these machines as a teacher rather than a ghostwriter could help us preserve our natural language learning process as we inherently hone our biological neural networks. Labeled as stochastic parrots, it could be that the Bow-wow Theory, one of the theories of language origin, could be related to the development of GPT3, discussing imitative sounds. If it echoes what is said, then humans, particularly the models’ scientists, are responsible for whatever the response may be. Taking this into consideration, we can deduce that AI should not be quashed; we just have to figure out ways how to make it work without compromising our rationality.

With the prowess of the human mind, there is no doubt that we can come up with improved language models. AI’s supremacy in the future is nowhere near possible, so we should terminate our trepidation. The human brain is an unprecedented instrument that no machine could ever come close to; trusting its function is therefore critical. It processes languages naturally, but that does not mean that we should not trust other tools that may benefit the learning process.

The future of AI is tied to saving the learners’ and educators’ time to focus on creating abilities like conversational familiarity or confidence in communicating across cultures. The strength of man-made intelligence is in making a customized learning experience that permits the learner to deal with their areas of shortcoming and benefit from tailored feedback, as opposed to following along to a one-size-fits-all model of learning.

Words by Charmie H. Cabiasa
Art by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana

27/01/2024

After careful deliberation, Ang Giya Journal proudly presents its Editorial Board for AY 2023-2024. May these campus journalists weave excellence into every word.

Ang Giya Journal, in service of the XU School of Education community.

Words by Michaela Grace A. Golez

24/01/2024

XU SOE holds 8th Seniors’ Pinning Ceremony

On Jan 20, Xavier University School of Education (XU SOE) conducted its 8th Seniors’ Pinning Ceremony with 69 practice teachers from different specializations at the XU Immaculate Conception Church.

The program began with the eucharistic celebration led by Fr. Madz Tumbali SJ, followed by the procession of candidates for internship. Dr. Edralin C. Manla, Dean of the School of Education, officially initiated the ceremony with her opening remarks. She applauded the practice teachers for their resiliency, perseverance, and commitment to serve the Filipino nation.

“May you be inspired to always do things with magis up to the tiniest detail—with or without someone watching,” Dr. Manla highlighted.

Public School District Supervisor, Dr. Anita M. Gochuco, delivered an inspirational speech on behalf of Dr. Roy Angelo E. Gazo, Schools Division Superintendent—Division of Cagayan de Oro. Her speech highlighted the urgency of teachers for nation building.

The ceremony formally began with the awarding of pins to the candidates from different programs, presented by the XU SOE internship supervisors. The practice teachers were accompanied by their respective parents and guardians.

Afterwards, Charmie H. Cabiasa (BSED English 4), batch representative delivered her inspirational message. Cabiasa challenged the future educators to uphold excellence in aiding one Filipino learner at a time. “Raise the bar high because education is worthy of our investment,” She further added.

The event capped off with a closing remarks by Ms. Phyllis Bernadenne S. Mendoza, faculty of XU SOE. She stressed the importance of observing professionalism at their assigned partner schools for both of their in-campus and out-campus internship at XU Basic Education campuses and DepEd schools around Cagayan de Oro City respectively.

The interns started their in-campus internship on January 22, while their out-campus internship will begin on March 11.

Report by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana

03/11/2023

ICYMI: Xavier Ateneo welcomes exchange students under SEA-Teacher Project

Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan is a Filipino, Catholic, and Jesuit University forming leaders of character for the needs of Mindanao, the Philippines, and Asia-Pacific.