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I - CORE, Maharlika Highway cor. Cardenas St. , San Jose, San Jose (2024)

Q: What is the address?

Maharlika Highway Cor. Cardenas St. , San Jose

07/08/2024

EDITORIAL | Challenge of Time

A tree continuously bears fruit as the clock ticks by at a rapid pace.

Many are given the title of leader, but not all successfully live up to it. Last Friday, August 2, the passing of the key and the oath-taking of newly elected and outgoing officers were held at Core Gateway College Incorporated (CGCI). The challenge is that the recently elected officers of the College Supreme Student Council (CSSC) are tasked with continuing the legacy established by the previous generation.

In his speech, Dr. Danilo S. Vargas, the School President, highlighted some of the major achievements of the outgoing CSSC officers, placing significant expectations on their successors—not just to continue what has been started but to surpass it. The newly elected officers must create an indelible legacy, bearing the symbol of greatness. However, a question remains: How capable are they of meeting these demanding expectations?

Furthermore, all of the outgoing Presidents, including Carlo Soriano, CSSC President, Nicole Gatcho, Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) President, and John Michael Orihara, Senior High School Council (SHSC) Re-Elected President voiced the same challenge to the new officers. This underscores the importance of bringing innovative and progressive change to the school community. The emphasis is on making a lasting impact during their term of service.

However, the authority of the newly elected CSSC officers is questionable, as their qualifications are uncertain due to the lack of competitors during the campaign and voting period. Moreover, the online voting process raises concerns about potential errors, which could impact their ability to meet expectations and continue the legacy of good governance.

Despite these concerns, it is only the beginning, and they still have the opportunity to prove their capabilities. Given the current circumstances and the issues that arose during the election, it remains to be seen if they can live up to expectations.

Additionally, leadership is not just a title or a symbol of power; it is about compassion, caring for the community, uplifting meaningful changes, and listening to diverse voices. It involves turning thoughts into reality and making dreams come true. It is a challenging task that cannot eliminate the possibility of failure.

To put everything into account, the challenge that the new officers face is as intense as it goes, given the weight of the controversy. They must be able to fulfill their obligations and the duties they have sworn to accomplish within their period of serving. The tree constantly produces a fruit if the gardener gives it care and warmth. The successors should reproduce the fruit of success and not let the tree die. Throughout their time of serving, they must bring the best change there is for the community. They only have limited seconds to prove themselves as clock ticks faster than the blink of an eye.

04/08/2024

IN PHOTOS | Remembering the Mr. and Ms. CGCI 2024, take a look at your photos as we celebrate the INTAYON: Pagsalubong sa Makabagong Sibol, CGCIans! 👑✨

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

04/08/2024

INTAYON: MR. & MS. CGCI 2024 RAGED THE LIGHTS AMIDST THE RAIN

On the night of August 02, 2024, the candidates for Mr. and Ms. CGCI lit the torch of INTAYON.

Uniting to support their representatives, the Department of Basic Education, and all the College of Core Gateway College, Inc. departments the PAG-ASA Sports Complex, San Jose City, was led by the shout of their respective supported candidates.

Rain showers but the scream and determination of the CGCIans remained unbeatable as the candidates performed their production number. The event was embodied by the Board of Judges, which are Ms. Andrea Marie Ondivilla, Mr. Andrei John Manzano, Mr. Tristan Jay Nening, Mr. Angel Rada Dumpit, Mr. Donald Simon, Midwife Karen Nuñez, and Mr. Mark Jayson Pascual Mina.

The minor awards begin with the “People's Choice Award” for senior high school candidates, Mr. John Jobert Rombawa and Ms. Leah Kim Ortiz. The award for Mr. RLSM is owned by Mr. Joriz Malto from Bachelor of Secondary Education and once again by Mr. Rombawa from the Senior High School department. Meanwhile, the award for Ms. RLSM is Rhealyne Agcaoili from Bachelor of Secondary Education and Ms. Ortiz from Senior High School.

The Philippines' National Costume: the Filipiñana and Barong were the highlights in the formal wear competition where Mr. Malto and Ms. Agcaoili from the BSED department won the title of "Best in Formal Attire.”

Aside from the winning title, some of the awards awarded to the candidates are Mr. and Ms. Face Manna of Nueva Ecija which were awarded to Mr. Joriz A. Malto from Bachelor of Secondary Education and Ms. Leah Kim Ortiz from Senior High School department. For the title of “Best Advocacy”, was awarded to the department of Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Mr. Osmond Wise Glover and Ms. Mary Rose Castro. Wherein, Mr. Glover highlighted his advocacy for encouraging all student-athletes, and not only devoting time to the field of sports but also being responsible in the academic aspect. Ms. Castro’s advocacy has been all about the sustainability of natural resources. She also mentioned that “Nature doesn’t need people, but we people, need nature.” Moreover, the award for “Best Production Number” was raised to Ms. Nariz, who represents the department of BSBA, and Mr. Malto from the BSED department.

As the pageant continued throughout the rain, the 2nd place title prevailed to Mr. Malto from the BSED department, and Ms. Eugenio from the SHS department. Victorious in sweeping the 1st place, Mr. Dizon from the SHS department, and Ms. Agcaoili from the BSED department takes place.

Finally, with the winning answers that brought them the crown, Mr. Osmond Wise Glover from the BAPS department and Ms. Jiannise Guillermo from the BSCS department are the official Mr. and Ms. CGCI 2024.

Report by: Kimberly Quitlong, Aries Dancel, and Ciela Margaux Baltazar
Photos by: I-CORE Media Team

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

02/08/2024

Intayon💀🙋

🎨Kimberly Quitlong

01/08/2024

INTAYON FEATURE| Nature's Jewel

Like a sprout that blossoms in the spring, you all emerge into a wonderful flower.

Amidst the pouring rain, all of you never withered, instead, you became the sun radiating a powerful glow through your rich and diverse skill and talent.

You've all embedded a remarkable and lasting symbol as our school continuously creates a legacy on the INTAYON CGCI Got Talent 2024.

The crowd was immersed in a wonderful fairytale as each talent told stories through musical harmony, rhythmic movement, flickering of strings, and heartfelt drama. Each performance bears a memory of the collective experiences of the participants, making them shine uniquely.

When faced with unforeseen circumstances, rain streamlines, wind howls, and thunder roars, CGCNians showed how flexible and resourceful they are when encountering adversities. We may have the challenge of weather, but the talent of each participant blows the storm clouds; steadfastly standing and showcasing their talents.

This event presents a great opportunity for all of the talented youths of CGCI. It serves as a platform to enhance their skills and let their unique treasures be recognized. The rich and one-of-a-kind talent and personalities of CGCNians foster a colorful community bounded by peace and harmony.

You have all bloomed into a wondrous petal, SIBOL. Continue to shine amidst the dark times and let your valuable talents reach every corner of the globe Go out there and show the world what you are made of, TATAK CGCI. Now, blossom little flowers.

✒️Harvey Valdez

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

01/08/2024

CGCI Got Talent Show Triumphs Despite Heavy Rain

Today’s CGCI Got Talent event at the Quadrangle showcased a diverse array of student talents, including singing, dancing, acting, and instrumental performances. Despite being disrupted by heavy rain, the show was successfully moved to CORE 4 5th floor, allowing the event to continue uninterrupted.

The competition featured 12 talented participants from various departments, with performances evaluated by a panel of three judges: Ms. Hannah Eunice Caparino, Ms. Claire Anne Velasco, and Ms. Rio Gagabi. The event was expertly hosted by the Corporate Communications Office, who guided the proceedings with enthusiasm and professionalism.

Sarah Oria from the BSBA Department won the championship with her outstanding performance. Carl Katrish Valdoz from the SHS Department earned 1st place, meanwhile, Wakin Batugal from the BSED Department took 2nd place.

The event proved to be a remarkable display of creativity and resilience. Despite the unexpected change in venue due to the weather, the performers performed memorable acts that captivated the audience. The seamless transition to the new location highlighted the students' determination and the support of the organizers. This year’s CGCI Got Talent was a testament to the vibrant spirit of the student council, turning a rainy day into an unforgettable celebration of skill and artistry.

✒️Michael Orihara
📷 Christian B. Sembrano

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

01/08/2024

INTAYON NEWS: New Beginnings; Students Orientation

As we celebrate the INTAYON: Pagsalubong sa Makabagong Sibol, an orientation for all the new students will never miss a chance to happen!

Starting with Mr. Franz Ervy D. Mallare, he thoroughly discussed the understanding of the school's rules and policies, as documented in the student handbook.

The Academic Scholarship and Grants were also discussed during the orientation, led by Ms. Aimee Ordinario, Finance Officer III/TES Coordinator, who thoroughly explained the content and scope of UNIFAST, as well as qualified students who could apply for the scholarship.

Ms. Carmi Mika P. Masanda, CGCI Guidance Facilitator, also provided extensive information on the various problems that students face with their studies through Guidance Services, as well as who or where they should consult. The significant benefits of Guidance Services that CGCI students can obtain were also highlighted. The contents of the student handbook were continued throughout the Orientation.

The open forum for students' questions, which were promptly answered by those in charge, particularly those related to the UNIFAST Scholarship, was the highlight of the orientation. The students' orientation concluded safely.

✒️Aries Dancel

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

01/08/2024

NOW HAPPENING| INTAYON Kicks Off with a Buzz: A Thriving Array of Booths Captivates the Crowd

The much-awaited INTAYON event for SIBOL and NEW SIBOL of Core Gateway College, Inc. today marked the opening of a splendid number of school organization booths. Soon after the opening of the event, a rather large number of students from the vicinity of the school flocked to the event in order to get acquainted with the richness of opportunities and the peculiar features of the work of various departments.

All sorts of booths could be observed, as the event involved pretty much every school organization one could think of. Having the range of booths ensured that there was always something that would interest everyone whether it was in the form of a game, learning something new or even a showcase of a certain part of school life that one had no knowledge about.

Every booth made the different activities and undertakings of the organizations a center of focus in a unique manner. The event was a good opportunity to make students and guests’ time bright and filled with fun and purposeful activities.

INTAYON proves to be an effective and versatile medium in portraying a variety of talents and innovative ideas in school. The event of multicultural fair enhanced interaction promoted the spirit of culture conservation and provided many chances for engagement.

Through the exciting conversations and interactions in the booths throughout the day, one would easily note that this year would be remarkable due to the high amount of vigor, activity, and togetherness embedded in the show.

✍️: Alexandrea Venturina

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

01/08/2024

INTAYON FEATURE| Empowering Students' Voices: INTAYON, Makabagong Pagsiibol!

"As we walk the path of self-expression, may our chalk marks be bold, our voices be heard, and our freedom be the canvas that unites us all." -Walt Whitman

Starting the month as jolly, the usually bustling quadrangle of CGCI was transformed into a vibrant display of creativity and self-expression.

The chalk walk, accompanied by the freedom wall, is where the students filled the school quadrangle with different forms of self-expression, inspiration, and doodles.

The CGCInians truly enjoyed themselves, from posting notes to drawing various arts showing that it is possible to mingle and welcome the "Makabagong Sibol."

The school's freedom wall and chalk walk event brought together students and teachers to celebrate the power of freedom and individuality, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

✒️Katrice Seriosa
📷 Jomari Sabado

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

01/08/2024

JUST IN| INTAYON: The Welcomed Beginning

Today, the Core Gateway College, Inc. officially welcomed the first-year students, and transferees of the institution. Hosted by the Corporate Communication Office, the program is full of vigor.

Despite the rainy weather. The students are still full of excitement that can be seen the moment you enter the gate. Students with balloons waving and officers leading, INTAYON is finally sailing.

Dr. Danilo S. Vargas gave his opening remarks and gave gratitude to all the "Bunso" and "Kuya't Ate", incoming and outgoing officials, and faculty members.

CSSC President Carlo Juego Soriano welcomed the students with "Welcome sa CGCI, dahil sa CGCI belong ka"

Moreover, the student council finally open the booths, chalk walk, freedom wall, and photo booth for the students.

✒️ Aries Dancel, Jobert Eugenio, Kimberly Quitlong
📷 Jomari Sabado

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

31/07/2024

✨ 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗖𝗚𝗖𝗜-𝗮𝗻𝘀! 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗿𝗴 𝗮𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀? ✨

Become part of an org as epic as the Fellowship of the Ring. I-CORE, the official student publication of CGCI, is recruiting new heroes at Intayon! Whether you're a wordsmith like J.K. Rowling, a photo pro like Peter Parker, or a design wizard like Tony Stark, we need your talents!

𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘂𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹?

Let's have the time of our lives fighting dragons! Swing by our booth, and let's make some magic.

Remember! Through weaving words and wielding truths, "we will be remembered".

https://forms.gle/CvJ2rwLrLj6QYSxGA
You may now fill out the application form above.

For more inquiries, message us at:
📨I - CORE
📧: [email protected]

Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI

27/07/2024

𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮 | 𝗠𝗿. 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝘀. 𝗖𝗚𝗖𝗜 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱-𝗗𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄, 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘀𝗮𝗱

Isang mahalagang bahagi ng proseso ng pagpili para sa Mr. and Ms. CGCI ang isinagawang closed-door interview noong ika-26 ng hulyo, sa pangunguna ng College Supreme Student Council at ni Mr. Ray Lomboy, ang chairman ng patimpalak.

Ang Mr. and Ms. CGCI ay bahagi ng nalalapit na pagdiriwang na ‘INTAYON: Pagsalubong sa Makabagong Sibol!’, na may layuning salubungin ang mga bago, at nagsisipagpatuloy na mga mag aaral sa institusyon na gaganapin mula Ika-1 hanggang Ika-2 ng Agosto.

Pinaanyayahan ng kumite ang mga sumusunod na panauhin: Ms. Carmi Miko Masand, LPT, MED, ang guidance facilitator ng CGCI; Ms. Apple Tacmo, head ng human resource ng CGCI; at Ms. Andrea Marie Ondivilla, ang Ms. San Jose City 2022.

Sinuri nang mabuti ng mga panelista ang mga adbokasiya ng mga kandidata at kanilang mga plano sakaling sila ang manalo.

Ayon kay Ms. Janice Guillermo, isang kandidata mula sa Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, ‘Nalaman ko na hindi naman pala dapat ikinakahiya ang ganitong kulay (Morena), kasi beauty is not defined by a single shade of color, but is rather defined by a diverse spectrum.’

Matapos ang masusing pagsusuri, naging matagumpay ang closed-door interview ng mga kwalipikadong kandidata. Ang kanilang mga sagot at adbokasiya ay nagpakita ng kahandaan at dedikasyon na maging huwarang kinatawan ng Core Gateway College, Inc. - CGCI .

Sa huli, ang kanilang paglahok sa Mr. and Ms. CGCI ay hindi lamang tungkol sa kagandahan, kundi tungkol sa pagpapahayag ng mga prinsipyo at layunin bilang mga bagong mukha ng institusyon.

Ang ‘INTAYON: Pagsalubong sa Makabagong Sibol!’ ay tunay na isang makulay na at makabuluhang pagdiriwang na nagbibigay-diin sa talento, talino, at katatagan ng mga mag-aaral ng CGCI, at umaasa tayong magdadala ito ng inspirasyon sa buong komunidad.

Akda at Larawan mula kay: Kentchie de Guzman

25/07/2024

EDITORYAL | PAALALA BAGO PAG-ALALA

Sabay sa malalakas na hangin at bugso ng ulan ang pagbubukas-eskwela sa ilang mga paaralan, kabilang ang mga pribado at pampublikong institusyon para sa akademikong taon 2024-2025. 'Di alintana ng ilan sa mga pamahalaang lunsod at ahensyang responsable sa mahalagang serbisyo tulad nito, ang hirap na nararanasan ngayong ng mga estudyante sa kung papaano nila mairaraos ang isang buong araw sa paaralan ngayong napaaga ang tag-ulan ayon sa Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Sa gitna ng mga posibleng badya, marapat lamang na bigyang prayoridad ang kaligtasan ng bawat mag-aaral sa loob at labas ng kampus. Panawagan ng nakararami, pagkansela ng pasok ang unang hakbang para sa ganitong klase ng kalamidad.

Sa mga nagdaang araw, naging malaking kasiraan sa buong Metro Manila at ilang mga kasapi ng Luzon ang hagupit na dulot ng bagyong Carina para sa mga paaralang magsisipagtuloy sa pagbubukas ngayong balik-eskwela, kung kaya’t samu’t sari ang naging pahayag at hinaing ng mga apektado ng bagyo. Bilang tugon, mas kanais-nais na manatili na lamang sa bahay at intindihin ang sitwasyon habang naglilimas ng lagpas talampakang tubig sanhi ng baha, kaysa pumasok at pangatwiranan ang kabagalang sing-kupad ng daloy ng trapiko sa pag-aanunsyong pagsuspinde ng mga klase.

Makikita sa ganitong uri ng sitwasyon na tila naghihintayan na lang ang bawat isa sa aprubasyon ng presidente. Sa bisa ng Republic Act No. 10121 o ang Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, ang pagdedeklara ng call to action order ay para lamang sa mga malawakang pinsala ng partikular na kalamidad. Ngunit sa katunayan, hindi basehan ang lawak ng ari-ariang ipinatumba ng isang bagyo para sa kumpirmasyong pagpapatigil pansamantala ng mga klase sa buong bansa. Kung tunay itong pagmamalasakit ay sa simpleng pamamaraan muna manggagaling, kung kaya’t tinaguring ‘waterproof’ ang mga mag-aaral sapagkat hindi nila ito maramdaman sa oras ng pangamba.

Gayunpaman, sa kabilang banda, ang pangunahing dahilan kung bakit mayroong delay sa anunsyo ay masusi muna itong sinusuri ng mga ahensya para sa sigurado at epektibong deklarasyon sa pamamagitan ng pananaliksik, surbey at analitika sa mga sangkot sa nasabing sakuna. Bagama’t may prosesong sinusunod, sa usaping seguridad ay dapat laging handa, aktibo, bago, maliit man o malaki, nararapat lamang na bigyang-agarang testigo at pakinggan ang hinaing ng mga mamamayan sa tinig na idinaraan sa mga online platforms upang pigilan sa paglala bago ang pag-alala.

Para sa mas kapani-paniwala, ang ilan sa ating mga estudyante ay hindi pare-pareho ng layo ng pinanggagalingan papuntang paaralan, kung kaya’t ang ganitong klase ng abiso ay isang malaking katulungan para sa kanila. May mga pagkakataon pang nasa loob na ng eskwelahan ang dami ng bilang ng mga mag-aaral, saka pa lamang makatatanggap ng balitang suspension. At ang mas nakababahala, dahilan pa ng ganitong klase ng abirya, ang nagbabantang sakit para sa mga mag-aaral, katulad na lang ng leptospirosis ayon sa International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction (IJDRR). Pangsang-ayon dito, na ang sagot lang upang makaiwas talaga sa peligro ay huwag na lamang pasuungin ang mga estudyante matapos magsimula ang pag-uulan kung alam namang may bagyong nakapasok sa Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

Gayunpaman, ang kalamidad ay wala sa palad ng isang tao – walang may kontrol dito. Ang tanging magagawa na lamang natin ay sundin kung ano ang tama anuman ang kahinatnan. Ang mga alituntunin ay nariyan upang bigyang-daan ang bawat isa sa kung papaano makaliligtas sa kapahamakan. Ang balita ay higit na makapangyarihan sa desisyong walang kongkretong kasagutan. Ito ay para sa kinatawanan ng lahat ng mag-aaral na dumudulog bilang patunay na hindi ‘waterproof’ ang mga pag-asa ng bayan.

✍️: Christian B. Sembrano
🎨: Kimberly Quitlong

09/07/2024

𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮| 𝗨𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘄 𝗻𝗴 𝗸𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗲, 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱

Binuksan nitong ika-8 ng Hulyo ang marka ng pagsisimula ng regular na klase ng mga mag-aaral sa CGCI.

Natapos ng mga mag-aaral ng departamento ng pangunahing edukasyon nitong nakaraang linggo ang kanilang oryentasyon upang bigyang kaalaman ang mga mag-aaral tungo sa bagong yugto ng kanilang buhay.

Mula sa pakikipanayam kay Danica Delos Santos, bagong mag-aaral mula sa departamento ng Senior High School, pinaghandaan niya nang mahusay ang araw ng kanilang pasukan at naging masaya ito para sa kanya.

Sa kabilang banda, nagsimula na rin ang klase ng unang semestre para sa mga mag-aaral na kasalukuyang nasa kolehiyo partikular na ang isang mag-aaral ng BSBA na si G. Keann Pajemna.

"𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘢 𝘴𝘢 𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯, 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘪 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘢𝘨-𝘢𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘢𝘴𝘪 𝘮𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘢𝘺𝘰𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘬𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘨𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘥, 𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘺𝘰𝘯 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘰 𝘱𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘪 𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘱𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘭𝘢 𝘬𝘢𝘺𝘢 𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘱𝘢 𝘱𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘨."

Nairaos nang matiwasay ang unang araw ng klase sa nasabing mga mag-aaral, partikular sa mga bagong mag-aaral na bubuo ng mga bagong alaala kasama ang nakatagpong mga kaibigan.

Sulat ni: Katrice Seriosa
Kuhang-larawan ni: Michael Orihara

07/07/2024

CGCIans, ARE YOU READY? 🌱

Gear up for the academic year 2024-2025 with these essentials:

1. Paper 🗒️—As we dive into another chapter of our epic journey, it will surely take thousands of pages before we reach the final leaf! Just like Harry Potter needed countless spells to defeat Voldemort, so will you need your notes to conquer your studies! ✨🪄

2. Pen 🖊️ —Pick up your pens and start writing what your heart beats. Channel your inner Shakespeare or Jo March from "Little Women" and jot down all you aspire to achieve. Equip yourself with everyday learning to apply both inside and outside the campus. ✨

3. Eraser ❌—Mistakes don't mean failure. Just like Tony Stark had his share of errors before becoming Iron Man, remember that each mistake is proof that you're trying. It’s better to try and fail than to not try at all. 😉

4. Scissors ✂️—Cut off all unnecessary energies that don’t contribute to your growth. In college, it's crucial to surround yourself with the right people. Think of it like finding your own fellowship in "The Lord of the Rings"—look for friends who support your academic quest, not those who lead you astray. 👫👭👬

5. Humility 😊—Being humble is key. College will humble you, just like life did to the characters of "Friends" and "How I Met Your Mother." Be gentle with yourself during tough times and see criticism as a chance to grow and improve. 🤗✨

Break a leg, CGCIans, and make '13 year-old you' proud! 🌱✨

01/07/2024

LATHALAIN | MARIPOSA

GHILPER JOHN SANTIAGO BILANG KAUNA-UNAHANG MUTYA NG BAHAGHARI NG CGCI.

“Butil na hinasik ng isang tao, kapares nito’y pangmalawakang pagbabago.”

Suntok sa buwan para sa mga miyembro ng LGBTQia+ community ang pagnanais na mapabilang sa pamantayan ng lipunan magpasa-hanggang ngayon; danas ng karamihan, kailangan munang may patunayan bago tanggapin. Hindi unos o bagyo ngunit ang paglabas sa silid-damitan ay isang napakalaking delubyo—ang sandata nila, isang gatiting na telang suot-suot bilang tapis, repleksyon sa pagkilala at pagtanggap harap ang salamin. Bagama’t taliwas man sa pisikal na postura ang trato at tingin sa sarili nila, sa ikabuturan ay hindi sila naiiba.

Kung minsan ay nakapagtataka, malaki ang espasyo sa pagitan ng mga salitang respeto, pagmamahal, karapatan, katarungan, kalinangan, kabilangan, kaisahan, kalipunan at kapayapaan kahit pa na matagal na itong aprubado sa papel at ipinaglalaban sa sambayanang kontra sa hustisya, kung maaari namang ibigay ito sindali ng kung paano ipagtabuyan at husgahan ang isang lalaking may makulay na kolorete sa labing nakapagpapasaya. Sa lalaking pursigido para sa pamilya kahit pa na ang kasuotan nito ay baro’t saya. Lalaking handang ibigay ang buong pusong pagmamahal matapos ay tunay at balingkinitang katawan ang ipapalit lamang.

Sa kabila ng kanilang patuloy na kontribusyon sa ating buhay, ani mo’y isa pa ring palaisipan para sa mga kabilang nito kung ano ang kabayaran na naghihintay para sa kanila. Kailan ba papabor ang paligid? Tunay ang ibinibigay ngunit kailanman ay hindi mapantayan ng ganti. Sa mundong kinamumuhian sila, saang sulok ilalarga na kung saan ang pakikisalamuha ay hindi parang isang sakit na nakahahawa. Na may kapit-bisig pa rin, hawak-hawak ang mga kamay ng bawat isa nang walang pag-aalinlangan at pangamba. Nakasasawang pumalagi sa sariling bayan na ang kalayaan na dapat kusa ay ipinagdaramot kahit pa na sarili mong lipi.

Kagila-gilalas ang kakayahan ng buhok sa buhay ng isang indibidwal. Mahaba-habang proseso ang kinakailangaan upang tuluyang makuha ang kapal at haba nang naayon sa kagustuhan. Kabaliktaran ito ng isang mag-aaral ng Core Gateway College, Inc. (CGCI) na si Ghilper John Santiago, na pagkaraan ng apat na taong pag-iimpok ng lakas ng loob sa desisyong pagpapalit-wangis at biswal, hindi sukat-akalain ng estudyante na sa ikalawang taon niyang pag-aaral ng kolehiyo ay muli niyang kahaharapin ang hindi makatarungan trato ng mundo para sa katulad niyang miyembro ng LGBTQia+ community. Sa pagtapak niya sa institusyon, isang patay na sistema ang tumambad sa kaniya. Walang lugar para sa isang katulad niyang ang hangad lang ay makapagtapos sa kabila ng kung papaano kilalanin ang sarili na haharap sa maraming tao. Hindi niya alam kung kanino siya darapo.

Ipinaglaban ni Ghilper kahit sa huling pagkakataon ang karapatan niya bilang isang tao at hindi bilang isang mag-aaral. Na kung maliit na bagay man para sa karamihan ang kagustuhang ipaputol ng paaralan ang buhok na sumasalamin sa tagal ng panahon niyang paghihintay, ay wala itong kaibahan sa paruparong tinanggalan ng pakpak. Paruparong ipinagkait ang bulaklak sa paraan na kung saan niya natatamasa ang depinisyon ng tuwa at laya. Mga mata ay nangusap, at mga labi ay bumagsak nang ilang sandaling pagtigil ng mundo, muli itong bumalik agad nang tainga ay makarinig ng balitang pagpapahintulot para sa mga katulad niya. Ngunit hindi niya sukat-akalain na pinagbigyan lamang pala siya ng panahon, na sa pangalawang pagkakataon ay nasa posisyon siyang muli, iniisip kung papaano isasalba ang sarili niya ngayo’y parang sinasakal siya ng reyalidad ng buhay at mahigpit namang nagpupumipiglas ang mga kamay na nagsisilbing dignidad at moralidad niya bilang isang tao. Hindi niya alam kung saan siya huhugot ng tapang tanggapin ang binitawang salita ng isang gurong malapit sa kaniyang puso, “Anak, magpagupit ka na. Kailangan na talaga… Bawal talaga.”

Humingi ng palugit kahit isang linggo para tanggapin ni Ghilper ang alituntunin ng paaralan bilang pagbibigay respeto at galang. Mula noon, gunting ay naging kustilyo na para bang paulit-ulit siyang sinasaksak habang tinitingnan ang sarili, nakaupo at hawak-hawak ang ulo niya ng barbero. Nagsipagbasag ang mga pinggan at baso. Sa pag-ihip ng malamig na hangin ay naramdaman ng manipis na balat niya ang halik ng mga bubog. Tila ba alikabok sa islang malayo sa lungsod, mag-isa sa gitna ng dalampasigan, tinitingala ang dilim. Hanggang sa isang araw, sa ilalim ng bughaw na kalangitan, berdeng paligid, mga taong naghahagikgikan sa tuwa, naglalakad at paparoon si Ghilper nang sugatan ang puso at damdamin.

Gayunpaman, ipinagduruan man si Ghilper, tumindig at hindi siya nagpatinag ituloy ang ipinangakong legasiya. Ang isang salita niya, “Butil na hinasik ng isang tao, kapares nito’y pangmalawakang pagbabago.” Misyon niyang huwag maranasan ng kapwa niya mga transgender woman ang pasakit at init ng nagbabagang asupre sa mundong ibabaw. Sa halip na ibaon ang sarili nang buhay sa hukay, ay mas pinagdiinan niyang maging isang huwarang modelo sa paraang paglilingkod at pagsali sa iba’t ibang organisasyon sa loob ng paaralan. At habang paabante siya patungo sa pagbabago ay tila papalapit din siya nang papalapit sa pinapangarap na pagbuo ng sarili niyang organisasyon na naglalayong pagtibayin, pagyabungin at tangkilikin ang mga kasapi ng LGBTQia+ community sa loob ng paaralan. Ayon sa kaniya, mahalaga ang katulungan nito, hindi lamang sa taon niyang paninilbihan kung di pati na rin sa mga susunod pang henerasyon.

Sa tulong ng mga tagapagtaguyod at sumusuporta sa grupo, sa wakas ay nagkaroon nang muli ng kulay ang paaralan ng CGCI. Sa ikatlong pagkakaton, pakiramdam ni Ghilper na sulit ang tatlong taong paghihintay sa inilunsad na programa para sa mga katulad niya. Taong 2024, ika-unang araw ng Marso ay nakita niya ang sarili na suot-suot ang makukulay na tela, hindi sa harap ng salamin at walang pag-aalinlangang husgahan nang may ambang kamao, kung di isang paruparong mariposa na umaalingawngaw, malaya, masaya, makinang, mataas ang lipad at lapad ang mga pakpak sa paraisong hindi lamang siya ang nag-iisa. Sa paraiso na walang pagkalito iba-iba man ang kulay. Sa paraiso na may karatungan at kapantayan. Pagmamahal, respeto, karapatan at pagtanggap ang pundasyon na sila-sila lamang ang nagkakaintindihan. Nakita niyang muli ang sarili nang may mahaba at punong-puno ng palamuti ang buhok na tila sumasayaw sa kada hampas ng kaniyang baiwang. Na kung dati ay diskriminasyon ang natatamasa, ngayon kapag ilaw na ay tumama sa kaniyang balat, hindi na pangmamata ang natatanggap niya, bagkus malalakas na sigawan at masisigabong palakpakan.

Huli man para kay Ghilper pumabor ang lipunan bago siya tingalain suot ang koronang nagniningning, isang karangalan para sa kaniya na tanghalin bilang kauna-unahang Mutya ng Bahaghari 2024 ng Core Gateway College, Inc. Sapat na sa kaniyang nagbubunga na ang mga inaasam-asam at tiyak itong magtutuloy-tuloy na.

“Butil na hinasik ng isang tao, kapares nito’y pangmalawakang pagbabago.” Kahit gaano man kaliit ang tingin ng iba sa isang katulad niya, mataas ang tinitingalang langit ni Ghilper. Langit na kung saan naghihintay ang bahagharing para sa kaniya. At sa bawat hakbang na ipinagkakaloob niya ay ang pagbibigay ng bagong liwanag at pag-asa ng mga mariposang katulad niya.

Isinulat ni Christian B. Sembrano